Hopeful

It is easy to become overwhelmed with fear. Recently, I have experienced the pain of someone I knew being taken too soon, as well as the hell unleashed on the participants and spectators of the Boston Marathon. It is only natural to question why, but to allow that questioning and pain to define our days is a waste - of energy, love, and time that others no longer have the luxury with which to make memories. While I feel helpless, I am full of hope. Spring is everywhere - God's reminder that there is life after death...what we call winter. We make choices everyday. From the minute our feet hit the floor, we are deciding whether to eat breakfast at home or at work, to dress our children in pants or shorts, to pack a gym bag or call it a rest day...the list is endless. But we first make the decision to get up, to live, to truly experience life. Everyday is a gift, not a guarantee. And I was so very happy to be given today. The sunrise was beautiful, buds are appearing on trees, and my daughters were full of giggles as we headed out this morning. I am not callous or unaware of the damage and pain caused yesterday, but I choose to focus on the good of those who help, of the outpouring of sympathy from around the world, and the love I am given from GOD! I work in an office that specifically deals with responding to these crises - whether natural or manmade - and in finding ways to prepare communities prior to disaster so they are best able to rebuild and recover. It is an amazing challenge and organization. I know I am still just one person in a big world, making little impact on a huge hurt. Yet, I hold onto my hope, as I am greatly aware that good outnumbers evil in immeasurable ways. Remember today that we are blessed to have life, health, and family and friends. That we are a community as a Nation, not just cities and towns. We were all in Boston yesterday, and while our hearts and prayers remain with the victims and their families, we must not become blind to love and good, due to the great darkness of terror. I will give hope and bravery more room in my heart than fear and loss. I will run today for those who are no longer able. I will put rubber to road. The colors of my flag do not run, but I DO! I run for life and hope and love. God bless us all!