The Boston Marathon Finish line on 4/14/13
**I wrote this post on the evening of April 15, 2013. It only seems fitting that I re-post today on the one-year anniversary of the Boston Marathon Tragedy. Join me today in taking some time to pause and reflect on the Boston Marathon tragedy and all those affected.**
As someone who has lived in the Boston-area and blogged about Boston for many years, my heart goes out to everyone impacted by today’s tragedy. I am incredibly sad to see the Boston Marathon and my beloved city subject to such a horrific incident. While I have no doubt that Boston will come back stronger than ever, our city and Marathon will still be forever changed.
The Boston Marathon has always been a happy day for me, both as a spectator and as a volunteer. Though I did not volunteer this year, I spent five years volunteering on the course and in the press room. Whether volunteering, or enjoying as a spectator, I am always inspired by the runners, from their stories, to their motivation and the adversity many have overcome. The Boston Marathon is as much about its iconic city and unique course as it is about the people. Speak to anyone who watches, or runs the race, and you will hear just how much people are moved by their stories. As a result, it’s very hard to see people who love the race as much as you do hurt, scared, upset and grieving.
I was lucky. I spent time with colleagues along the course earlier in the day watching the men’s and women’s elite runners finish. I went home to get work done and heard the nearby explosions. I watched as smoke rose above the buildings, as police officers ran toward the scene and listened as more and more sirens came wailing by. Unsure what to do, or what was going on, I turned to Twitter to find out what was happening.
In the end, I did what I knew best – I turned to Twitter and shared information. I listened to the news reports on TV and tweeted soundbites, stats, phone numbers, and any relevant resources that I felt would be helpful to Boston and beyond. It’s not much, but I’m a firm believer that information and experience sharing is critical during times like these.
What I didn’t expect from today was the outpouring of text messages, emails, tweets and Facebook messages to check and see if I was ok. And, not just to me directly, but to my parents as well. Days like today put life in perspective. You experience a range of emotions and are also reminded of how important you are to so many people. It’s heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time.
While details continue to emerge, there’s no doubt that today was an incredible tragedy. Please join me in thinking about the many runners, spectators, volunteers, staff and first responders. Leave a comment below to share your thoughts and experiences today.