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The city of Boston is steeped in history, culture, beauty and pride. This is most evident in the love of our sports teams, even when we lose, we win, as we are all part of this family.  

When tragedy struck our city two years ago, we were all affected, because this happened in our home. We wept for those whose lives were cut short, for those who suffered unimaginable injuries and when the responsible party was finally apprehended. The community of Boston is vast, unique and the support for one another is unwavering!  I know we all had goose bumps and tear drops when Papi stood in front of a packed crowd at Fenway and declared, “This is our f@$&%*g city!”  Carry On by Fun has officially become the fight song of our beloved Boston and I dare you to listen to the first measure without getting choked up.  You can’t.

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I remember exactly where I was on the afternoon of April 15, 2013 as it was just two weeks after we brought our second son home from the hospital.  I, along will countless others, spent the next several days glued to my television set.  I couldn’t believe what I was watching and the emotions it brought forth.  The city and surrounding area went into complete survival mode.  We wanted to protect ourselves, our families and one another.  As someone who has loved Boston since childhood, it was new to feel apprehensive about going into town.  When it was time to return to work after maternity leave, I wasn’t sure about my regular morning walk but I was determined to beat those fears.  Despite everything, people continued to commute to work, to visit our historic landmarks and museums, and to live.

We still do.

This act of terror, which was meant to make us feel unsafe and afraid, only managed to bring us closer together.  We were determined to take our community back from the evil that tried to destroy it.  There was anger and fear but above all, there was a rebirth of pride and determination to protect our home.  By living and thriving, we are doing just that.

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Today, people from all over the world will participate in this year’s Boston Marathon, representing their communities and our City in a positive and uplifting event.  In doing so, they ensure that the lives of those lost or forever changed by the events of April 15, 2013, will never be forgotten.   We will continue to heal, we will carry on, we will forever remain, Boston Strong.

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