Marathon runners are a little crazy, yes, but we all share a love for running and for being a part of something bigger than ourselves. Boston isn’t just a marathon, it’s a symbol of the hard work and dedication of so many runners who’ve qualified, and the hopes and dreams of those of us who haven’t. The attack on Boston was felt by so many because we, as runners, are a family.
The joy I felt when I ran Chicago was more than I can express. It was overwhelming to be part of such a large race, with the runners, volunteers, spectators and families all there to cheer for and support one another. Knowing that this same spirit at Boston was attacked yesterday, and knowing that those most affected will never be the same breaks my heart.
Runners, however, are a strong group of people. Who else wakes up at 5am every weekend for months to run, or gets up to run early every week before work, or suffers through countless injuries, lost toenails and all types of weather just to do what they love? Who else can endure 26.2 miles just to prove that they can; to be a part of something great? You don’t mess with runners; our spirit cannot be broken.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those affected by yesterday’s tragedy, but I know as a community we will rise up to support one another, to support Boston, and to support that connection and that spirit that lives within us all.
Well said. I still can’t believe something like this would actually happen…
Very well written post. I still am in shock but the quote that you posted shows us that we are strong.
I’m glad you posted about yesterday, anything else would have seemed insensitive. Now’s the time for everyone to sign up for a marathon. The next one, the first one, volunteer at one.
I loved, LOVED this post. That’s an awesome quote. Even if I’m crying, I’ll be running today.
Prayers to the people of Boston. I crossed the finish line 30 minutes before the bombs went off, but, at the time, I was just a block away from the explosions at the family meeting area. I’m so fortunate to have crossed the finish and found my family when I did. I’m just devastated that such an amazing event has been affected by such a great tragedy. I finished the Boston Marathon, but every time I look at my medal, I remember the sounds of bombs going off.
I love the way you wrote this/said this. You’re SO right. And good will ALWAYS overcome evil, that I believe. We just have to stand united in that –being kind/loving/charitable/service oriented/reaching out to others. THAT is how we will win this fight.
My heart & prayers go out to ALL affected as well….which is so many people. It just breaks my heart. 🙁
So sad 🙁 the families of Newtown have already been through so much, an attack on the mile dedicated to them just makes my heart hurt more.
Very well said Katie. We are a strong community and we will are lucky to be amongst such strong and powerful people
[…] Brian at Pavement Runner, Katie at Peace Love & Oats, and Heather at Run Faster Mommy. Ericka also has a great list on her […]
Yes, we are all connected. Great post.
You’re right Katie. Runners are strong and we come together in moments like this. Our community will only be stronger after this.