One Boston

The first word that popped into my head when I woke up this morning, Boston. Boston. Boston. Boston.

I should be there, but I am not.  This fact does not escape me as I sit 3,000 miles away from the people I love most in the world.  I should be there.  I know that there is nothing I could do, nothing that would change what happened.  And yet I want to be there, to sit with my friends, to hug you all, to be a part of the healing, the helping, the hurting that is taking place right now.

I keep asking myself what I can do and I scour the news, Facebook, Twitter, I text friends, to see what there is to do.  Here is what I have found.  Maybe you can help too.

1. Pray.  I spoke with a friend who is a teacher where Martin Richard went to school.  She said they can all use your prayers, especially Martin's mother who was still in critical condition yesterday.

2.  Donate.  I found this link through Boston.com that has a list of benefits happening. It also lists restaurants who are donating money.   Parlor Sports, a good friend's bar in the neighborhood where I used to live, gave 100% of its sales last night to the families and victims.  I sent friends on my behalf and they said it was packed. This link is for a wish list for kids at the Children's Hospital in Boston.

3. Grieve.  We all do it in our own way.  There is no right or wrong.  Be there for someone.  Talk about it, sit with it, attend a vigil, be mindful that we all take care of ourselves in different ways.  Healing together means making sure you take care of yourself.  A principal once told me that it is just like they say on airplanes, put the oxygen mask on yourself.  You can't help anyone else before you help yourself.  Make sure you are healing so you can be there for others.

4. Keep going.  There is nothing we can do to change what happened.  However, my soul has been lifted whenever I see the signs of solidarity in and for Boston. The Yankees played Sweet Caroline at a game.  Friends have already started training for next year's marathon.  At tonight's Boston Bruin's game, Rene Rancourt started the National Anthem as usual, and the fine, fine people of Boston finished it. (I also just noticed they are playing Buffalo...I'd like to think it is another piece of me, checking in on my city.) 




I mentioned to a friend that I couldn't stop thinking about what happened.  He said to stop, that that is exactly what the person who did this would want me to do.  And I agree.  Now, I am thinking of Boston, a place where people can and will do anything.  I am thinking about the strength, the courage, and the kindness I have seen and heard.

Stay strong Boston, I will be there as soon as I can.  I love you all, with all my heart, and I know we can do this.