With the events of the last week seemingly entering a new phase, some thoughts have been rattling around my head.
If You’re Not From Massachusetts
Patriots Day is a very unique holiday and can be hard to understand coming from outside the state. First, this compares slightly to Independence Day in the sense that it commemorates the start of the Revolutionary War when Paul Revere warned the colonists of the approaching British, which then led to the Battles of Lexington and Concord. Both towns celebrate by reinacting the battles and they also hold parades. The event is a huge point of pride.
The other major event is the Boston Marathon, which most people assume is why schools take the week off and why Patriots Day is a state holiday (it’s not due to the Marathon, by the way). This is one of the most well known marathons across the globe, but in the state it has a different meaning. It’s one of the purest forms of sport, as there are no sides. Yes, there are professionals trying to win the race and it isn’t without its past controversies. The rest of the field, however, are everyday people. For example, Dick Hoyt has pushed his disabled son Rick, who has cerebral palsy, in the Marathon every year since 1977. Thousands, if not millions, of dollars are raised every year for various charities.
People use the race as an inspiration to change their lives. Runners face unique obstacles along the way, including the infamous heartbreak hill. Then, after a harsh 26 miles, they enter Boston and head towards the finish line in one of the most beautiful sections of the city, the Back Bay, ending their journey in the gorgeous Copley Square. Communities, friends, and families come together to cheer on runners along the whole route. Everyone in the Boston metro area knows someone either running in or attending the Marathon.
Patriots Day is a unique, celebratory holiday that few can match. It is special to the region and this is why it affects current and former Massachusetts residents so much.
The Response
When the bombs went off at the finish line, one of the most positive and inspiring days suddenly turned frightening and confusing. Conflicting reports were flying around and people were certainly fearful, however the city of Boston responded with extraordinary bravery.
First and foremost were the first responders who sprung into action. From the Police officers to the EMTs to the off duty spectators who stepped up to assist, many lives were saved with their quick thinking and willingness to put their own lives at risk. They communicated beautifully with the public and kept them up to date on the information they needed. From the second the bomb went off to the final moments of the tense search and face off on Friday, they kept their focus on capturing the people responsible.
The city and surrounding towns responded with just as much passion. On Monday, they opened their homes and businesses to runners without a place to go who were just bystanders in the confusion. Everyone’s resolve helped the city recover and move forward during such a challenging and frightening week. When Friday’s voluntary call to remain indoors came, cooperation was incredible. Many even felt compelled to remain at work until authorities informed them that they did not need to stay. Social media was alive with people spreading the pictures of the suspects and keeping their friends and family informed of the latest updates.
I believe that this spirit of cooperation and the desire to find the men responsible helped lead to their capture by the end of the week.
Where I Wanted To Be
To me, this best describes my emotions during the week: when the bombs went off, I didn’t think “man, I’m happy this didn’t happen when I was in the city a few years ago.” No, I wanted to get on a plane and fly up to Boston. I wanted to be there to support my fellow Bostonians and be with the people I love. Boston Strong came about because everyone in the city held each other up. At the same time, staying focused was difficult. Knowing my friends and family faced danger worried me, especially during the crazy day on Friday. Being all the way down in North Carolina certainly didn’t help.
Final Thoughts
As great as the city’s recovery from this tragedy has been, it is still a tragedy. Four people died and many lives changed forever. Let us not forget about the families affected as many will face daunting challenges. Hopefully they will receive all the help they need in the coming years.
We all changed this week. We all faced some of our greatest fears. At the same time, we saw how incredible Boston is. It’s more than Fenway Park, the North End, the Common, and a number of other great landmarks that make the city special. It’s a rich community ready to stand up to those who threaten to tear it apart.
No matter where I live physically, one fact remains true:
Boston has been, and always shall be, my home.