Today is the Boston Marathon. Thousands of runners will come from around the world to compete in this legendary sporting event, just as they have since 1897. Year after year, the originally named The American Marathon was always celebrated on Patriots Day. There has been much talk about this years marathon being different but upon deeper reflection, I think the age-old saying will hold true, “The more things change, the more things stay the same.”

Many things will stay the same, the marathon will continue to be hosted by the non-profit Boston Athletic Association and will raise over $12 million dollars supporting over 30 local charities, just as it always has. Over 500,000 spectators will continue to come out to watch the over 27,000 runners. Yet, this year will be different.

This year we will remember and honor the three lives that were lost last year, the lives that were shattered and the tragedy that touched us all. It is often hard to see the beauty that comes from loss and tragedy. Today that beauty will be everywhere…in every runner, every cheerleader and every Boston Strong t-shirt worn.  Today, it is not The Boston Marathon but once again the American Marathon as we come together as a nation, not just a city, to celebrate our unity, pride and compassion.

As Americans, we are reminded that in this patriotic city, on Patriots Day, that our forefathers were feisty, strong, resilient, and had the ability to unite and come together in good times and in bad. While some things may change, many things will remain the same this year in Boston.

Charity Matters.

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