Trying to Process the Tradgedy

This entry is a day late because I was too shocked to come up with the right words yesterday. 

Words cannot fully express the tradgedy of the bombings at the Boston Marathon. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of the victims. 

The Boston Marathon is more than just a race: it is the biggest of accomplishments, a lifelong goal, for runners all across the nation and even from other parts of the world.  It is the ultimate symbol of dedication and achievement.  Any finish line really is supposed to be (and usually is) the most joyful and triumphant place on Earth.  And some sick **bad word** took that away from thousands of people.  It just doesn't make sense.  And I really don't think it ever will.

One thing that may come to mind is hatred towards whatever monster is responsible for this.  But let's take this opportunity to instead be even more unified.  Fight hateful acts like this with love.  In spite of the terrible scenes in the news yesterday, as well as the shock, disgust, and terror that came with those images, it was heartwarming to see so many responders comforting and caring for both the physically and emotionally wounded.

Finishing races will not be the same.  There will be anxiety, of course, especially for those who had to endure the tradgedy of April 15, 2013.   But, we will all be stronger and more unified than ever.  We will be even more grateful every time we cross that finish line and never take it for granted.  We will hug our friends and family so much tighter upon finishing.  We will have even more mutual respect for our fellow runners. 

My message to whoever is responsible for what happened yesterday: we will never understand why you did this terrible thing, but you will not bring us down.  You have only made us even stronger.  Good always overcomes evil and always will.