For Boston

Initially I had planned to post a race recap from my half marathon this past week, but in light of the events at the Boston Marathon and what unfolded over the course of the week, that just doesn't seem too important right now. Of course, I'll post it soon, but I feel that as a runner (hell, as a human being), I need to address the marathon bombings and the events that followed.

I really have no idea what to say because there really are no words. What was supposed to be a celebration and the crowning accomplishment from months (and years) of hard work turned into a day of heartbreak and chaos. I can't even begin to imagine how the spectators, runners, and people of Boston felt. But I can say, from a personal perspective, I can't help but think of all of the times my own friends and family have been waiting for me at the finish line, and running this week has been a bit more emotional than usual.

I love to run. And this month marks my one year running anniversary, and it's changed me in profound ways. I've done things I never thought I would be able to do and I continue to exceed my own expectations. But even more than that, I've found a community, both here in Charlotte and across the country. And if there's anything I've learned, it's that we runners are a strong group. We don't give up and we band together in times of stress and struggle, and this horrible event is no different.

My heart goes out to the victims of this tragedy, to the runners, and to the people of Boston, and I am so glad they apprehended the suspect(s). For the injured and for those who lost loved ones, I pray that healing begins quickly and that they find hope in the darkness. And for Boston, stay strong, and to all of you runners out there, run on.