Yesterday was the Boston Marathon and if you are following the news, you know that two horrific bombings took place. It is sad to say that occurrences like this are happening more often lately, whether it is the tragedy in Newtown, the terrorist attacks of September 11th, or any other senseless act of violence. However, one thing I have noticed after each of these incidences, is the overwhelming camaraderie, persistence and compassion for others.
Watching the news reels from yesterday, I watched as seconds after the first bomb, individuals rushed towards the explosion to help other human beings. On Facebook and other social media, I watch as friends, family and strangers send out prayers and positive thoughts to the victims, their families, friends and to all mankind that we stay safe, healthy and happy. Such compassion for others is awe-inspiring and moves me practically to tears. As a fellow runner, there is already a camaraderie between the supporters who watch races, the volunteers (who spend hours setting up, helping the runners, and making sure the streets are clean after the races), and the runners themselves. It is truly like a network of family members out there supporting you as you run, even though the race itself is an individual event.
Through all these incidents, I have seen another network of family members and that family is all of mankind. Yes, I have seen Americans band together in times of these acts of terror, but I see this more on a global scale and not just with mankind. Daily, I see individuals filled with so much compassion, that they are not only doing great acts of kindness for their fellow human being, but also for the animals of this world and for the beautiful nature found within.
I often post recipes, meals or thoughts on being self-sufficient and growing the food I will eat. There is a need to take care of nature and the animals within nature - whether they are our pets or wild animals - to treat all others with compassion. I was reading my Spirituality and Health magazine and I found an article with this quote:
"Until we extend the circle of our compassion to all living things, humanity will not know peace." - Albert Schweitzer (scientist and humanitarian)
That is the epitome of how I feel - and thankfully, every day I see more and more people treating others with compassion and bravery to help others. I am so thankful that God has put such amazing people on this planet. Yes, there are individuals and groups who commit these acts of terror, but there are many more people who are doing good and being selfless in their kind deeds for others.
Thank you to all those who take some time out of their day to make others happy, safe and healthy.
Keep doing what you are doing whether you are helping people in a crisis, volunteering for a good cause, sheltering an animal, advocating for animal, human or environmental rights, and much more. God bless us all.
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