As most of us know, Monday, April 15, 2013, marked the tragic day of the Boston Marathon bombing. We watched it all unfold with our eyes glued to the television, wondering how something so wonderful could turn into something so horrific in a matter of seconds. The pain, the tears, the blood -- it was almost too hard for us to fathom. We sat there and questioned why anyone would want to inflict that kind of violence on people, especially on a beloved day like Marathon Monday. We're left without answers, without a reason, and the resentment of what has happened to so many innocent lives.
Just a few hours before the bombing my brother and his girlfriend, who were both at the marathon, called from the finish line to tell me they wanted all of us to participate next year. They thought it'd be a great idea if a group of friends and family took turns pushing me through the marathon, and made it a fundraiser for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Of course I said yes. Being a part of a great family event such as the Boston Marathon and being able to raise money for such a worthwhile cause; it doesn't get much better than that. People from all around the world come together for this event, and I'd love to be one of those people.
When I received the news of what had happened shortly after, my heart sank. My brother. He was there. Was he still at the finish line? Was this an act of terror? I panicked. Seeing the looks on people's faces as they were scrambling from the destruction made my stomach turn. Not knowing my brother's whereabouts only made it that much worse. I finally got in touch with him and found out he had migrated to the 24-mile mark soon after he and his girlfriend had called me. They were now staying at his friend's apartment nearby until it was safe to leave Boston. I was relieved, but the feeling of helplessness quickly overcame me knowing my brother was in the midst of all the madness while I was safe and in the comfort of my own home. Watching the news only made it worse. I wanted so badly for my brother to be home with me, but he wasn't, and all I could do was text him to say 'I love you.' I can't even begin to think of the anguish felt by those who had loved ones who weren't as lucky as he was.
Due to the 9/11 attacks, endless shootings, and even bombings, we are beginning to live in a world full of worry and terror. It is unimaginable that a person could perform these acts of terror on another. Yet, through all of the violence we endure. There is one thing that always remains the same during these sickening times: the acts of incredible kindness. After hearing the remarkable stories of those helping the victims in the Boston Marathon tragedy, I can't help but commend them for their courageous actions. These people become heroes and help us to recognize that through every devastation, there's still good in this world. I believe we must always remember that. After all, there is nothing more powerful than the act of love.
My thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by Monday's awful tragedy. May you find the strength in you to move forward, and I pray you all will have a quick recovery. You truly are in the best care.