I just ran a half-marathon
I ran through my broken and proud city.
The fans cheered for the runners and held signs
“Our Strength is in their memories”
“One Boston.”
I felt the surge of love carrying me forward
seemingly halfway around the world.
Uniforms lined the route
I smiled and looked into the faces of those who lived for me to live
Hands outstretched, fingertips brush
power and vulnerability passed
My legs tired but thinking of the angels
who ran before me, some to never finish
I can keep going, I will endure.
As the finish line get bigger and bigger
I see an armored vehicle amidst smiling spectators.
When I finish I am handed a medal and escorted off the finish line
by a man who smiles yet beneath his helmet shows resolve
reflected only in his machine gun.
I am not afraid.
This city will not lose another soul.
Inside I am surrounded by runners celebrating
not the miles but the people
thankful for those who made that moment possible
proving to the world that though
Boston may have been a target
that though we have been shot
we will not stop running.