Like most other runners – and most other humans – I am numb over what happened in Boston yesterday.
I am lucky that I was safely in NYC, and none of my friends or loved ones were among the victims. But there shouldn’t be victims. Not at the Boston Marathon, the nation’s oldest marathon and one of the most celebrated marathons. Where the entire city shuts down on a weekday. Where, if you can run fast enough to qualify for an entry, it is a privilege to be able to run. Where I would love to run one day.
I was a journalism major in college, and in times like these, I can’t tear myself away from the news coverage, watching the TV numbly, and idly scrolling through social media, trying to learn why. I saw Caitlin post something last night about thinking about those who support her at races, and I finally started crying. My mom.
(My hands were shaking too much the morning of my first marathon to pin my bib on; since then, it’s become our tradition for her to pin my bib on before a marathon.)
She’s been at the finish line of all three of my marathons, and I’m pretty sure she’ll be at the finish line of any other marathon I ever run. That could have been her yesterday, watching me. It could have been me running, or one of my friends. It hits really close to home. Too close to home.
I’ve read so many beautiful words in the past day or so.
Even Jezebel put aside the snark: “If anything, the tragedy in Boston will further solidify the bond between runner and spectator. And when the Chicago marathon happens this October, I’ll show up to run harder, and they’ll show up to cheer louder. If anyone thought this attack would discourage the runners or the watchers, they’ve clearly never been to a marathon.”
From Allison’s Instagram.
Another beautiful photo.
Running has given me so much back in life in the last four years, and I’m sad for the loss of life yesterday at the Boston Marathon, but so hopeful for all the wonderful stories that have come out in the past 24 hours about people helping each other, and I’m more proud than ever to be a runner.
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I feel the same. Until yesterday I hadn't realised how strongly I identify myself as a runner. These are my people, this is my tribe and I take this personally! I'm honoured to be part of this community.
I hadn't seen that one picture yet. So true! Very humbled to even call myself a runner, but I feel the bond between us all for sure these past couple of days.
I'm feelings exactly. Although, my husband and boys aren't supporters.
@Christy: oops, darn iPad. They ARE my supporters.
Thank you for a beautiful post. I was at the supermarket talking to someone about Boston as I had lived blocks away from the first blast and was blessed to live in a dorm where I could see the marathon runners out my window.
I was about to say to the woman - I don't know why the parents took their child to the marathon and stopped in my tracks and thought Jill are you crazy, of course children should be there. When we stop doing things because of the acts of deranged individuals - they do win.
Here's to happier times and a return to the magic of the experiencing the triumph of the human spirit at all marathons!!
Boston is a strong city. The marathon will be back next year bigger and better than before!
I have never ran a marathon nor do I plan to but I can relate to the feeling you had about how it could have been you and your mom. Hopefully something like this will never happen again.
Nice post! I really like the picture of all the marathon runners and how they can run faster than you and they don't give up.
Theodora
Beautiful post and proud to be your mother! This was written from your heart and very true.
This is truly a beautiful post, my heart goes out to all the runners and people watching their love ones. Thank God for all the people that were their and for their support.
Thank God we were not their that day, but Yes, Theodora
I will always be at that finish line waiting for you and
giving my support when needed.
Love you
Mom
Boston is a strong city. I heard there are a lot of tributes in the sports world for Boston this week. I believe the New York Yankees did one yesterday for the Red Sox.
Beautiful post. <3