Thoughts on the Boston Marathon Bombings...

Once again, humanity has shown us of what it is capable.  It is heart-wrenching, maddening and frustrating to even try to comprehend how people can act in such evil ways. 

However, let us not forget, that although media coverage may lead us to believe otherwise, the good in humanity still far outweighs the evil.  We all lose if we allow our perspective to be tainted by the fear of what a small number amongst us are capable.  We risk seeing evil where it does not exist, or worse encouraging those at risk to identify with their shadow side rather than turning to the light.  I am reminded of Les Mis and Jean Valjean’s experience with the Priest.  We all tend to rise to the occasion when people believe in us.

If we focus on the evil, the perpetrators have won.  Let’s instead focus on all that is good and right in our world.  As has been shared all over the internet, Mister Roger’s message to children on the occasion of tradegy, is of equal importance to adults: 

When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, "Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping." To this day, especially in times of "disaster," I remember my mother's words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers -- so many caring people in this world.

Many faith traditions have taught that what we focus on becomes more prominent in our life.  By holding certain thoughts in our mind, we are actually programming ourselves to see more of it.  We end up acting in different ways that can bring what we fear to pass. 

So for now, let’s let the public officials in charge of investigating this act and bringing the perpetrators to justice focus on the evil.  The rest of us can unite and focus on the incredible stories of heroism, survival and the unwavering spirit of runners and of all people of the world.  Let’s all find hope and inspiration in the good, and help it grow one mind at a time.  “Let’s not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”  Romans 12:21