Boston On My Mind

It took me a while to sort my feelings and comprehend the tragedy that happened at the Boston Marathon.  Growing up in Massachusetts and training for my first marathon, this hit too close to home.  I am so sad for all those runners who never had a chance to cross the finish line, for all of those families who are mourning a loved one, and for everyone affected by Monday's events. 

Sitting at work following the updates, it was heartbreaking seeing the outpouring of "I have lost faith in humanity"  or " I need to move out of this country" comments. 

News flash:  Acts of violence like this one happen all over the world.  What makes the US different is how we react to these situations.  

I am sure you all read the quote about "looking for the helpers"  and saw the footage of people running TOWARD explosions to help random strangers.  I hope you focused on this instead of losing faith in humanity.

Inspiring Images of the helpers of the Boston Marathon   

Why are we so willing to let the evil of few supsersede the good in so many?

Bostonians near and far offered up their beds for stranded runners and bystanders.  There was even a Google Docs Spreadsheet   made where random strangers offered their personal information, hot meals, how many beds available, and other information. 

"I don't live in the city," reads one, "but can come get anyone who needs a place to stay."

"I live in Hopkinton," reads another, "but would happily drive anywhere to pick up a runner who needs food, shelter and comfort."

"Space for one person on a pull-out couch," goes a third. "Will cook you a nice meal too!"

As an article from Yahoo Sports states

"There's more good people out there than bad people," Zuker says. "And it's way more. The scales aren't even close."

He's right. There were perhaps one or two evildoers on Monday. And the list of good people goes on and on, growing by the minute, lined up in rows, ready to do anything to help.

My heart goes out to all of those affected by this tragedy But this will only make the running (and Boston) community stronger.  39 days until I run the Vermont City Marathon and I will have Boston in my thoughts every mile of the way.  Honor and remember the victims and I hope the helpers restored your faith in humanity <3