To the Editor:

The Pier Family, Beth, Jaleigh, Lance and Talyne, want to express our gratitude for those who helped during and after our family’s house fire on July 14, 2011.

From the volunteer firemen who selflessly spent hours dousing flames and saving whatever they could put their hands on. For the total stranger who went in to save our beloved dog when she would not come out of the house. To the animal control officer who took her home to wait for us instead of placing her in the shelter. Thank you to the friends who waited outside the home for us to arrive so that we would not be alone when we saw the house for the first time.

We are thankful for every person who said “I am so sorry” or “What can we do? We are grateful to the angels who came to our aid and provided us with a place to live, furniture and the necessities we take for granted. How do you thank so many people who opened their hearts to us in our time of need?

There are too many so I am writing to say “Thank You” to each and every one of you. We know who you are and we are truly blessed for your generosity and kindness.

The last thing we prepare for in life is to have your home and its contents destroyed.

Over the past three weeks I have found myself asking again and again, “What lessons are we suppose to learn from this?” The lesson is how to be humble!

This is a gift that has been given me and my family by you our neighbors and community.

We have learned that we are truly blessed to live in a community that is capable of embracing us in our time of need. You have taught us well.

By allowing others the opportunity to help not because they have to but because they genuinely want to do it from the heart. I am truly touched and get teary eyed every time I think of this.

So thank you “North Country.” We are truly blessed not only to live in this amazing place but to be able to call it home.

Beth Pier

Crary Mills