Courage Under Fire - Thoughts About Boston

Terror happens around the world every day. That terror can take the very public position that yesterday's Boston Marathon's attack did, or a more private style such as exhibited in child or spousal abuse which happens behind walls in every nation on any given day. Yesterday's terror was public, loud, and broadcast throughout the world.

The second explosion as caught on camera. The white smoke in
the background was from the first explosion. They happened within
two city blocks from each other and were detonated shortly after each other.

Here's the basic map of where the two bombs were located. As you can see,
the first explosion was quite close to the finish line, the second was back
about two blocks.

The blasts and the numbers of dead and injured were frightening, but what really impressed me was not the act of terrorism but rather those who immediately ran towards the blast sites to help the victims. These medical and security personnel ran towards the explosions without hesitation even though there was no guarantee that there would not be additional bombs in the immediate area. So even as our faith in humanity was crushed, once again it was immediately uplifted by the demonstration of basic decency and courage of those who cared so much that they placed their own lives in danger to help the injured.

This is the image that I carried away with me from the photos and TV
coverage. This young man embracing the form of a fallen woman
surrounded by blood - so very sad.

I've seen this kind of selfless response to terror happen before - in Oklahoma City, at the World Trade Towers on 9/11 and in smaller acts of individual courage in times of danger from floods, fires and auto accidents throughout this nation and others. Whenever I am brought down by the horror of acts of terror I am raised up again by the bravery and selflessness of those who respond to hatred with love and the courage to comfort and heal. Thank the Powers that the second type of person, the one who cares for others so deeply that their own danger is pushed aside, exists. Blessings upon all who were involved in yesterday's rescue efforts and all of the injured, slain, and their families and friends.