I look forward to watching or hearing updates of the Boston Marathon each year. The Boston Marathon celebrates the human spirit. It celebrates persistence, commitments to a goal, and achievement. It’s a reflection of sacrifice, love, fellowship, and dedication.
I watched the marathon on my computer until I had to leave for my economics class. I checked in time to time on twitter to see what the results where. A couple of hours later, I read a few tweets that an explosion happened. I assumed it was an accident until more reports came in. Right after class, I headed to my car to listen to WBBM. Disgust, anger and sadness filled me. I arrived home from Northern and turned on the news. I finally saw what unfolded while I was in class.
Allison Rosati interviewed their sports anchor Mike Adamle about the experience of the marathon and what it means to us runners. You can see the distraught in his face and his fight to keep certain emotions in. I couldn’t fight the tears back. I cried.
My thoughts were about the families and friends to see their loved runs achieving a dream. Thoughts focused on the runners who had loved ones injured or died. I thought about my mom, brother, friends, and other family that cheered and supported me at my marathons. It makes me sick to my stomach to see what happened to the spectators who loved and supported us runners.
In the darkness that fell on Boston, many lights shined that day. I hope we won’t forget that. Photos and videos showed fellow spectators and runners helping those in need. The first responders (police and EMS) sprang into action to protect everyone. We read of runners who was unable to continue their run to the marathon running to find a place to give blood. The light will blind the darkness. Love will always conquer hatred.
My fellow runner, Jennifer W. wrote, “I have two choices. Watch the news coverage or lace up my shoes and go on a run in honor of all of those in Boston. I’m choosing the latter.” I ran a few rainy miles with my brother. My thoughts, prayers, and heart are with everyone that was involved in Boston that day. The Chicago Running community is taking action by organizing a 5k. Runners are uniting tomorrow by either wearing their race shirts or wearing the Boston Marathon colors of blue and yellow.
I am a runner. My heart is in Boston. My prayers are for those who support us and run besides us.
More Love and Prayers:
- Boston Marathon Love – Sara Runs
- Boston and the Bond of Runners – A Foodie Stays Fit












