Following the Eaton, Palisades, and more recently Hughes fires, a torrent of letters has flooded The Times. These fires were ignited by an unusual Santa Ana windstorm that swept through on January 7th. As often happens in the wake of such natural calamities, we’ve seen the usual blame game and demands for climate action. Many have expressed sadness, empathy, and hope, which remain my personal favorites.
Unfortunately, there have been a few “burn, baby, burn” comments from outsiders who seem to relish in California’s woes. Frankly, I’ve come to expect them.
But here’s what’s surprising: many letters from people far from Los Angeles — some from across the globe — express love for this city and a strong belief in our resilience. There’s been remarkable solidarity, especially from Australia, a country familiar with the kind of wildfire disasters we see here.
In these politically turbulent times, these letters remind us of the compassionate aspects of human nature.
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To the editor: Words fail me. I hold you in my heart knowing it isn’t enough. Still, I believe many others are doing the same. We stand with you in spirit, even though it feels inadequate at the moment.
Betty Huffman, Flagstaff, Ariz.
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To the editor: At about eight years old, when I first grabbed hold of a newspaper route, my first paycheck went to a Hot Rod Magazine. Those pages fueled my dreams of California, showcasing shiny hot rods against the sprawling backdrop of the Pacific Coast Highway and ocean.
Years later, my daughter chose UC Santa Barbara, and flying into LAX to drive along PCH rekindled those childhood dreams in vivid detail. The devastation of these recent fires hits hard. The scene along PCH isn’t what it should be today, and likely won’t be for a while.
Yet, Californians are remarkable, resilient, and kind. It’s awe-inspiring how, when pressed by reporters, residents who’ve lost everything in a disaster declare their determination to rebuild — never considering leaving.
I eagerly look forward to cruising the PCH again soon. The hot rods and smiles will return, accompanied by Beach Boys tunes and the tenacity of surfers.
Dean Athanas, Monument Beach, Mass.
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To the editor: The hearts of us Aussies go out to those affected by the fires around Los Angeles. The loss of homes, valuables, and livelihoods is truly sorrowful. Yet, I read in The Times about the determined spirit of residents ready to rebuild. This understanding that the problem lies not with the place but with the conditions echoes strongly here. May you rebuild with pride and luck.
David Sanderson, Darwin, Australia
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To the editor: Writing from the bush in Australia, I’m heartbroken over the losses—lives, homes, natural beauty, and communities. I recall our Black Summer fires of 2019. It was terrifying. Even my humble, eco-conscious life was overshadowed by relentless drought and smoke.
I had cultivated a garden for 30 years, which perished. My daughter, living in a rainforest, welcomed her first child amidst the chaos of evacuation, with fears only previously imagined.
But with heartbreak came rain, breathing life and hope back into the land. Climate change’s seriousness demands our attention. It’s crucial to foster a sustainable future. My prayers and thoughts are with you all. Be gentle with yourselves.
Francesca Stahlut, Armidale, Australia
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To the editor: Here in Lake County, Calif., we’ve faced eight wildfires in the past decade, including 2018’s Mendocino Complex, when the skies turned a shade reminiscent of the Golden Gate Bridge.
We now call those who persisted “fire survivors.” The ones who didn’t make it are the true victims. Yet, rising from the ashes seems impossible until it happens.
Meredith Andersen, Clearlake, Calif.
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To the editor: People across this country are thinking of you, holding you in our thoughts and prayers. We mourn your losses, and though the path to recovery is long, remember you’re not alone.
Walter Latham, Yorktown, Va.
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To the editor: Having visited California over 20 times, the sight of these fires deeply saddens me. In the aftermath, I propose that the L.A. community honor its first responders by awarding them a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. They truly deserve this recognition.
Paul Tormey, Langford, Canada
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To the editor: It’s almost surreal to wake up and find the familiar landscapes of my childhood among the ruins. My schools, local library, the theater where I saw my first James Bond flick—all gone. What remains are skeletal streets where vibrant homes once stood.
This vast erasure feels like a giant hand wiped away what should have been lasting memories. Yet, in our hearts, we can reclaim those cherished times.
Though I live half a world away now, comfort comes from shared stories. I am overwhelmingly grateful for the privilege of growing up in the enchanting Pacific Palisades.
Maureen Barten, Mordialloc, Australia
