If there was such a thing as a pause button on life, then I definitely hit mine yesterday. From the moment I received a news alert on my phone regarding what had happened in Boston, I could not take my eyes away from the television. Even with conflicting reports, I was glued to the screen.
Eventually I had to force myself to turn it off after they kept showing the same video clips over and over and over (and over). But that didn’t stop the replay in my head. And over and over there was a voice that narrated alongside the horrific mental images about how incredible this day was supposed to have been for the thousands of runners who trained so hard, not to mention the thousands of friends and family members who had come to show their support.
I found myself looking through the pictures from my first trip to Boston nearly two years ago. I was enamored with the city then, and I am even more enamored with it now. As Fred Rogers said, “look for the helpers.” Yesterday Boston proved that it has thousands of them. Between those that rushed toward the smoke only seconds after the bombs went off, those that were waiting anxiously to help at the hospitals and those that offered their homes as refuge in the aftermath, the collective outpouring of support was overwhelming and truly brought light to the darkness of the day.
I am thankful that everyone I know who ran or attended the marathon yesterday is safe. Today, I’m keeping the pause button close by and saying plenty of prayers for those who can’t say the same. My heart and thoughts are with those individuals, as well as their families and friends.
You can also bet I’ll be wearing a race shirt. Fellow runners, I encourage you to join me.
Abrazos,
So sad. So senseless….
Agreed.
I love that clip from Mr. Rogers. The whole thing is so terrible and tragic, but the community outpouring really warms my heart.
I couldn’t agree more, Hil.
Watching runners cross the finish line in Boston in such an inspirational thing to witness. The whole city literally comes out to cheer on every runner, from the fast to the slow. It is such a celebration. Our last year there we had a whole cheering section for our law school friend at the finish line on Boylston St., complete with signs and boomboxes. I am so saddened by the senseless violence, particularly during an event that celebrates human accomplishment and unity. I am glad to hear your running friends are all ok.
Thanks for sharing, Cara. I have no doubt that it is this same spirit from the marathon that will help carry the city through this difficult time.
I continue to pray for everyone as well. It’s strange to think that I was walking along Boylston just a week ago, right near the site of the second bombing. Crazy and very sad. As you mention, it’s heartening to see all the helpers, and I hope that people continue to receive all the help and comfort they need.
That must be so surreal. Crazy and sad and awful – but yes the support and stories of helping I’ve seen so far have been incredible to read, too.
Still can’t believe this happened.. so surreal. So sad. I have been trying so hard to focus on the good and ‘the helpers’, as you mention. I’m glad all your friends are safe<3