I don’t have a special connection with Boston. While I loved the city, I only got to spend less than two full days there, which wasn’t nearly enough. But I have friends from Boston and some who still live there. I don’t even consider myself a runner, despite running a race every month this year. A marathon is something I would like to accomplish one day but seems far from my current skill level.
But I am human, so the graphic images streaming in from this week’s Boston Marathon bombings did affect me. I was staying on St. Simon’s Island, Georgia when I heard the news, trying to rest after a busy afternoon on a press trip. But once I saw the footage, there was no way I could sleep.
Instead, I sat in my glorious bed, eyes glued to the television, unable to turn away. Just as I remember where I was on September 11 and when Osama bin Laden was killed, I am sure I will remember April 15.
There have been a lot of people helping runners, giving blood and generally proving the good in humanity. The Yankees even sang “Sweet Caroline” at yesterday’s game, which is a very big show of camaraderie for the longstanding rivals.
What I’ve taken away from the tragedy is that if these athletes can continue running despite this traumatic experience, both physically and mentally, I should be able to get off my ass and make a marathon happen. Other writers have been better at expressing their thoughts on the tragedy, so I’ve linked to them below.
Related Reading
- Here’s What Terrorism Can’t Destroy, by Katka Lapelosa for Matador Network– Katka does a fantastic job of reminding us about the athletes who survived the bombings and how they can inspire us all.
- My Account of the Attack on the Boston Marathon, Adventurous Kate– Boston native Kate just happened to be cheering on the runners with her boyfriend and shares what she saw.
- On Running and Fear and the Big, Bad, Horrible Things, Unbrave Girl– You might not know from reading her blog that Sally is a runner and while she is known for being a “scaredy cat,” she writes about kicking fear’s ass.
- What Do You Do? You Keep Running, Life Less Bullshit– Nicole hits the nail on the head with this post. The way to move on is to move forward, metaphorically and literally continuing to run.
Stand tall, Boston. I’m sending your prayers your way and I hope to return to spend time with you very soon.
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