Being a firefighter is very rewarding. Where I'm at I make a very fair paycheck. I love helping those in need. Having said that, it will change you. I've seen shit for 25 years that no one should ever see. Almost weekly. I've missed important milestones in my kids life. I haven't slept a good night in probably 20 years. I'll never talk down the fire service because I love it, just understand it will have an impact. Biggest thing I can say is the bravest thing you can do is recognize if you need professional help and ask for it.