Thoughts and prayers to the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy and their families
Like most Americans, I feel personally affected when it comes to national tragedies. To wrap my mind around them, my thoughts rush to the bits of memories floating there that lend a personal connection. So that I can process the pain. So that the heart can heal.
Yet as painful as it is as an observer to watch a national tragedy unfold on the news, the fact remains that I’m not in the middle of it. It isn’t my reality, and I can’t begin to comprehend the real agony of the ones directly involved and their loved ones. I can only attempt to offer solace to my fellow observers, and request it from them. Write to my Boston friends to make sure they are all okay. Offer prayers as I direct my thoughts to the tragedy.
I am thinking of all my Boston friends tonight. And I am reminded of the beauty, both in the place and the people, that is Boston. The Boston Marathon tragedy hits home for me in my heart and mind because in one of the most important chapters of my life, Boston was my home.
Bostonians have a reputation for being too much in a hurry for politeness and niceties. Bostonians get to the point, many think, in a way that can come off as cold. In my own experience, this couldn’t have been further from the truth. In spite of several record-breaking Boston blizzards I endured, Bostonians are among the warmest people I’ve ever met.
I made friendships there that have lasted years, and as a graduate of Boston University, the place and my experience there has shaped who I am as a human being. I consider myself privileged to have been able to call myself a resident of Boston. One thing living there taught me is the resilience of Boston’s people. I have no doubt that the great city of Boston will heal from this and emerge stronger than ever.
But tonight I can only grieve, pray, communicate, donate to the Red Cross, inform myself, and send hope for healing.
Love overcomes all, and if there’s one thing the great city of Boston has, it is love.
It’s is a beautiful post – thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much, Kerri. Like everyone, I’m still heartbroken by the situation, yet so inspired by all the heroes who made the difference.
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Weeks later, this is still a wonderful and relevant post. My brother ran Boston and was there – quite terrifying and he was flying on 9/11, too. However, we Bostonians are resilient folk!
I’m happy to know that your brother is safe but sorry he had to go through that ordeal. Bostonians are very strong–that is what I love about them. Boston is already showing such resilience. What an inspiring place and people.
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