What can you say?

After the explosions at the finish line of the Boston Marathon this afternoon, I’m having a hard time thinking about anything else.

It’s shocking and sad. At least two people have died, and more than 100 were injured.

There are many questions yet to be answered. I don’t know what to say to any of that.

I do notice, in the midst of all of this, there is still goodness.

A quote from Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers) is making the rounds, again:

“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.”

He and his mom were right.

There are so many helpers and caring people.

They are shining today:

• The police, marathon personnel, spectators and runners running toward the blast to help.
• The runners continuing to run past the finish line to the hospital to donate blood.
• The Boston residents opening up their homes to stranded runners.

And in my own little world, the many people checking in with me, knowing that I’ve been talking about the Boston Marathon a lot lately, making sure that I’m okay.

I am reminded that there is tragedy and there is goodness and caring.

With that comes hope.