“Back pack? Check. Map? Check. Pen and paper? Check. Sun-screen? Check. Open mind? Check. Check. Check.”

My Editor Lisa suggested I walk the streets to discover and write about the heart of Melbourne’s generosity whilst Victoria recovers from the devastating bush-fires. It didn’t take long before discovering I was lost for words and didn’t know where to begin…

As I set upon my task, no matter where I turned, the very word “bushfire” had quickly spread around the streets of Melbourne. From street to street, corner to corner, person to person and from lip to lip, the word “bushfire” demands a new form of respect; a word to truly fear now with global warming and a word we can now investigate to protect our future generations and our beautiful country.

This writing gig isn’t as easy as one would imagine it to be. Wandering through Federation Square, I’m even unsure where to begin and no doubt it will conclude with a list of websites for various fundraising organisations. “Simple formula!” It’s the body of the story that I need to sink my teeth into, to understand the very heart of Melbourne’s prompt support and empathy for the victims, the unity, the drive, the passion and commitment to help out a fellow Aussie, a family member, a neighbour, a friend, a friend of a friend of a friend, a cousin of the guy at work, a person unknown to ourselves, a complete stranger.

It’s not just Melburnians digging deep and lending a hand. Australians and nations have united and continue to offer support for survivors, with more than $100 million raised so far to help fire-ravaged communities rebuild their lives. I can turn to politicians, television personalities, rock stars, movies stars, radio presenters, newspapers and even static and flashing billboards for leadership and ways to help, but it is here in Federation Square at 12.38pm on Friday 13th of February, 2009 and I am completely stuck.

I feel numb. Life is going on all around me and I feel lost for words. I still can’t put pen to paper. An overwhelming feeling of helplessness has overcome me and although I’ve donated money on the streets and putting some household items aside at home, I have no way of substantially assisting my fellow Australians, who are no less than a hour and a half up the road. Like many of us, I too feel like I should be doing more.

There are so many ways that we can help. Money, goods and services continue to flood into Victoria. People are donating blood, food-stock for animals, medical supplies, clothing, food, water and even offering rooms in their own homes. The magnitude of our generosity can only make us proud of our unification as we continue to stand and grow stronger as a caring nation.

As I stand in Federation Square, thinking about all Australians less fortunate than myself, I listened to my heart and finally the words started to flow…

“You may not know me, but if I was you, during these difficult times, facing an uncertain future, I know, I would want to know you. Just knowing you are there, supporting me in some small way, even in thought, would be enough for me to say, thank you my friend. With you by my side, I know, I will find the strength to carry on and see the light of a brighter day.”