Boston: Strong(er) in the Face of Terror

“Boston Strong” has become a rallying cry since the devastating bombings near the finish line of last week’s Marathon, which grievously wounded more than 170 spectators and – ironically for a running event – left so many losing legs or feet.

“Boston Strong” merchandise was being sold to benefit the victims almost immediately, with groups and individuals establishing a variety of initiatives to help mitigate the towering medical bills that many are sure to face. Just a few examples, among the nearly 7 million citations on a web search for the phrase:

http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/east_boston/2013/04/suffolk_downs_to_sell_boston_s.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/23/boston-strong-merchandise_n_3139234.html

http://www.boston.com/sports/blogs/thebuzz/2013/04/how_to_get_the.html

The Los Angeles Times used the expression in a major story about the bombing, titled

‘Boston Strong’: A proud city shines through its pain: http://articles.latimes.com/2013/apr/20/nation/la-na-boston-bombings-relief-20130421

The outpouring of support from the running community around the world has been heartwarming, as shown in this gallery of running events that will now honor Boston: http://www.boston.com/sports/marathon/runforboston_submit/#/item-330861.

No races have been canceled, though last Sunday’s London Marathon added extra security. And even FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski tweeted about Boston Red Sox’ David “Big Papi” Ortiz’ on-air f-bomb: “I stand with Big Papi and the people of Boston.” http://www.newser.com/story/166630/fcc-chairman-boston-players-on-air-f-bomb-fine-by-me.html

Reminiscent of the support of the nation for New York City (and Boston, too, to a lesser degree) after the 9/11 attacks, the worldwide show of solidarity is likely to produce the opposite effect the bombers apparently sought: a desire to stand with the victims – which include the City of Boston for this iconic race of Patriots’ Day – not to cower in fear; and a renewed spirit, nationwide, of defiance of the attempt to instill fear.

The proud spirit of Bostonians was shared by many of us, helping mitigate the loss of life and terrible injuries, and remind us of the price we must sometimes unwillingly pay for freedom.