My heart goes out to Boston.

As with everyone else across our nation, and across the globe my thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this tragedy in Boston.

I am thankful for all of those helping out in Boston today- first responders, EMTs, police, the National Guard, and of course all of the nurses, technicians, and doctors working hard throughout the day and night to provide compassionate care to those wounded today.  Rather than become angry and disheartened by these events it's important to think of all of those who acted not with fear or anger but with bravery and kindness.  While many ran out a brave few ran in to risk their lives to care for strangers.

In the coming days it's important to take everything coming out in the news with a grain of salt.  It's best to keep our minds open as so much is still unknown about what led to the attack today.  This attack affects people of all nationalities and an act of terror can be perpetrated by an American or foreign individual. A person of interest is not the same as a suspect or a convicted terrorist and we need to stand by the American value of innocent until proven guilty.  Again, trust in the officials to identify and persecute these criminals and instead focus your energy on improving the lives of others.

Take that heartbreak that we all feel and use it to create something positive.  Care for your neighbors.  Find a way to give back in your community- donate blood through the Red Cross, give your time at your local food pantry, or bring cookies to your fire department.  There are so many ways to help out those around us and to simply bring a smile to someone's face.  I urge you to find a way to do that this week, and every other.


I hope this finds you safe and in good health.