The Day After Boston, 04/16/13

Running has always been a place where I find peace. After 9/11 I remember going for a run the next morning, looking up into the sky and knowing no one would be flying over me that day. It gave me a sense of security and solace. I remember feeling guilty for it, for the ones that will never be able to run again. Yesterday, my evening run turned from one of scheduled exercise to a second escape and one of reflection. Runners, our safe place was attacked and my heart breaks for so many reasons. I always think of the following Irish Blessing when I run and feel particularly alive, today I dedicate it to those scarred by Boston.

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

May God be with you and bless you:
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings.
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.

May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.

May green be the grass you walk on,
May blue be the skies above you,
May pure be the joys that surround you,
May true be the hearts that love you.

May God bless us all.

Easter is Over

Good Friday came and went quickly along with Easter. Here is a list of some of my favorite things that happened or things I want to remember from the last few days.

• My son and I went to Athens Church and he took his first communion.
• The lesson, "Remember me." Luke 22:19
• I felt the spirit at Athens Church during that last song. I will not forget it, nor the woman crying to my right.
• The look of serenity on the female singer's face that Good Friday night.
• After church on Easter, I said maybe we should smile more and my husband said, that is what our preacher said in the service. (I was helping out in the baby nursery) That is a sign from God.
• Watching the passion on the History Channel's The Bible.
• My son watching the above and him getting it.
• Hearing Mary say, "Jesus," as she announces his name for the first time. It made me visualize the actual Christ Child as a baby. Her baby.
• Easter at my in-laws. They are a constant. I need those.

Matthew 28:20 "...And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."  Amen.