A community shows its best when things appear worst

Yes, there was grim news from West Chester yesterday on the investigation into the inferno that consumed the Barclay Friends Senior Living Center Thursday night.

Four residents are still unaccounted for and feared lost in the fire.

But amid this dire news, amid the heartache that started with the first glance of those towering flames licking the sky over the senior center, we were reminded of what is good.

The community came together in the face of heartache to help those displaced by the fire.

Neighbors descended on the Barclay to help rescue residents. They brought blankets and hot drinks to comfort those routed from their homes, now sitting outside in 40-degree chill.

Then on Sunday an overwhelming show of support formed in the long line of cars cued up at the Good Will Fire Co. to drop off donations to help those displaced. These were critical items such as toiletries, clothes, even wheelchairs, walkers and canes.

It showed the essence of what we are: a community.

We talk about it on today's editorial page.

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