I woke up this morning, checked my phone as I always do...logged onto Facebook and checked the "Brooks Fanatics" page. There were multiple posts offering prayers to the people of Boston and the runners in the Boston Marathon...I though "what could have happened?" horribly so, my question would be answered. Two Incendiary devices were detonated at the races finish line and 50 meters or so to the south (I think) of the finish...At this time, people are dead, including children. Many more people are injured, some of those injured may not survive. Based on "talking head" reports, the explosive devices were "crude" in design, although built to achieve "maximum damage", ball bearings and shrapnel encased. The videos circulating are horrible, scary and also get my blood boiling. I will NOT be posting photos or videos of the carnage...I am overwhelmed by what the news is already showing, The first question I have is, Why?? Its the same question I asked after Columbine, and after Newton, after ever cowardly act of carnage. I still have no idea...this act, this is new ground and changes EVERYTHING.
All I can think is this is further evidence that we as a nation are STILL, despite those that would look to destroy what we stand for, UNITED...I again witnessed police, bystanders, runners and officials running towards danger, towards those in need. We are despite everything a community, who care for one another...To bad our governmental officials cannot act the same.
Our freedoms, have been changed though...have you tried to fly anywhere within the US?? Now ANY major sporting even that is this "open", )I don't mean that as an insult to the security provided by the City of Boston and the Boston Marathon officials, I know for a fact it was and is top notch) will have to change what it does and those changes may significantly impact the event itself. Personally I will think twice about having my wife and daughter at a "big" race to watch me finish....Who thinks their life is in danger at an event that in itself is about fun and accomplishment? This is an event that is unlike going to watch a football or hockey game. It is open to spectator participation and if some crazy or extremist wants to do something like this, despite the substantial security, they can, and obviously will. I can imagine that it is possible that finish lines at big US races will now be quiet places...that is sad indeed.
I am angry that somewhere in this world there may be...aw hell...there are, people who are laughing at and celebrating this tragedy. Worse than that if it is something more that a crazy... it will be in the name of their "God". I cannot comprehend that. I should forgive and try to understand... i cannot do that...i don't understand. I will hate you, and hate your version of God, i will hope for your demise. I will however pray that you will someday see the error in your portrayal of "God" and begin to value the gift of life, the life of others and the value of your own as well.
Today though, is a day, not of anger. Today is a day of sadness and prayer for those whose lives have been lost and forever changed. For we who run and run races the thrill of the accomplishment has been replaced by sadness and horror. At the same time, it has also been filled with devotion and compassion, Runners donating blood, Boston residents opening their homes for displaced runners who could not complete the course, and all those that gave more than what they had to.
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| cnn,com |
