Boston

The minute I decided to begin training for a half marathon, I became immersed in the world of runners. I suddenly understood how such a strong connection could be had between thousands of complete strangers. Runners get each other. We know how hard it is to get up early on a day off for a long run, how hard it is to take those first steps when all you want to do is lie down and do anything other than run. At the same time, we understand and have experienced the euphoria that can only be obtained through completing a run once thought out of reach. Running is our joy, not our punishment. What other sport can claim that? We runners are a family. We accept anyone who wants to join, for we were all once beginners ourselves. We encourage others to join and cheer them on, for we remember those strangers who cheered for us. Not only runners are included in this family, but the actual families of the runners. That being said, one can easily understand how absolutely horrible it was for a runner to hear of and see the actions that took place at the Boston Marathon.

I was in a state of shock when I heard what had happened. I was, and still am, angry at whoever did this. How could a person take away the feeling of euphoria that comes from these races? I was horrified and scared and speechless. Then I found out that the bomb was set off from within the crowd of family members and friends...the supporters, the main reasons most of us are able to do what we do. I went from angry to livid in record fashion. How dare someone hurt these people? How dare these idiots take away three lives that were so precious and encouraging and loving? How cowardly those responsible must be.

The bombings at the Boston Marathon made me realize how lucky I am to be healthy and physical intact. I am SO lucky to even be able to run, and I never want to take that for granted. Thus, I have decided to run a marathon (my first ever) next year. I have not decided where I will run this marathon, but I know I want my race day shirt to say "For Boston." I am running a marathon because there is no reason for me not to, and because I want to show those cowards that they cannot scare this family of runners. We are strong, able, and full of life. You cannot bring us down. You will not destroy our spirit. We will always be a family; we will always cheer each other on; we will ALWAYS be runners. And our fans, our supporters, will always be number one in our hearts.