#IRunForBoston

I have not always been a runner. Running became a part of my life when things were out of control and I desperately needed a healthy outlet for my thoughts, fears and frustrations. It may sound like a bit of an exaggeration, but running came to my rescue.

It's been about 5 years since I started running. Up until now I've only ever run a 5K (officially), but I recently signed up for my first half marathon which I will run in September. Like so many others out there I have created a fitness/motivation board on Pinterest for those days when I am struggling to get out the door.

There are countless images and sayings all over Pinterest, like "someone who is busier than you is running right now" or "the hardest step for a runner is the first step out the door," but in the wake of yesterday's tragedy one very specific pin came to mind:

"I run because I can. When I get tired, I remember those who can't run, what they would give to have this simple gift I take for granted, and I run harder for them. I know they would do the same for me."

So for those who lost their lives, for those who were injured yesterday, I run for you. What happened to you is unspeakable and nothing can take it back, but I hope that I can do my small part by running for you whenever I can. Whether it is a quick run on a Saturday morning or those 13.1 miles I plan to tackle in September I will think of you. I run for you and I run for Boston.

Words and prayers hardly seem like enough right now. We want answers, we want to know who is responsible and we want to help. An event like this can leave us feeling powerless, especially for those of us not geographically close enough to lend immediate assistance. I found this link with ways to help via Joseph Gordon Levitt's Twitter feed: http://www.takepart.com/article/2013/04/15/boston-marathon-explosion-how-you-can-help And in the meantime, let us all make an honest attempt to be kinder to one another.