In Defiance of Terror -- April 19, 2013
Dear Friend:
As you already know, it was a devastating week in America. On Monday, the nation watched in horror as two explosions scarred the city of Boston, claiming three lives and injuring more than one hundred others. It was a moment that struck the heart of every American, and in the days that have followed, we have many questions yet to be answered.
For more than one hundred years, the Boston Marathon has been a symbol and celebration of freedom, perseverance and unity, but on this day, those ideals were attacked. This senseless act of terror not only shook marathon participants and those gathered to cheer them on. It unsettled Americans across the country and peace loving people around the world.
But even in the face of this violence, the people of Boston and our nation as a whole stood together in defiance of terror. Just seconds after the first explosion, police officers, volunteers, marathon participants, and bystanders ran toward the smoke, determined to help in any way they could. We've seen videos of people pulling away the debris, tending to the wounded and moving people to safety. They did not cower in fear; they ran toward danger.
If ever we wonder what kind of nation we are – and what our people are made of – it is clearest in these moments. It is clear in the way we stand together, in the way we pursue justice, and in the way we refuse to yield to acts of terror and those who would do us harm.
My thoughts and prayers remain with the victims and their families, and as the investigation continues, we will continue to stand united – ever mindful that what binds us together is far more powerful than anything that would seek to tear us apart.
Best,
André