Running is My Oasis
In order to put things back into the perspective after the terrible tragedy at the Boston Marathon yesterday, I went home hugged my husband and kids and I went on a family run. We strapped the kids in the double jog stroller and went to our favorite lake and ran. Not unlike the rest of the world, I am stunned, shocked, horrified and restless. Who would do this? Why would you do this?
My heart aches for the father who lost his precious son and his wife and daughter suffered major injuries while waiting for him to cross the finish line of the Boston Marathon. I am saddened that spectators who came to share in a glorious moment of celebration with their family member(s) and/or friends will forever associate this tragedy with the Boston Marathon. I am sad that runners/racers will be concerned – myself included – that entering any major race is no longer safe or fun. Why put ourselves in harm’s way? Should we race? Should our family come out and celebrate with us?
While my heart heals, my legs will keep running. Yes, I will continue to race. Yes, I want my family to celebrate my accomplishments with me. Yes, I will still be fearful that we are in harm’s way. But, I will keep going. Each day I am suffering on the bike, or tired of the monotony in the pool, or breathless running fartleks, I be grateful that I can still run and I have my wonderful family around to support me. I am grateful that my teammates racing the Boston Marathon were all safe.
My prayers and thoughts go out to all those who lost a loved one or have loved ones injured.
From the Washington Post Boston Marathon explosion: Live updates, Bill Richard, father of Martin Richard, the eight-year-old killed in the bombing, released the following statement Tuesday.
My dear son Martin has died from injuries sustained in the attack on Boston. My wife and daughter are both recovering from serious injuries. We thank our family and friends, those we know and those we have never met, for their thoughts and prayers. I ask that you continue to pray for my family as we remember Martin. We also ask for your patience and for privacy as we work to simultaneously grieve and recover. Thank you.
A guestbook has been established on Legacy.com for people to write messages to the Richard family.
