A Day We Will Always Remember
I just arrived back in Seattle, from Boston, where I ran the Boston Marathon yesterday. I want to thank the hundreds of people who have reached out to Shawntel and I, through calls, email and social media channels – we are both so humble and grateful for your concern.
It was an unbelievable experience. What had started as a beautiful day, running my 5th Boston Marathon in five years, being there with my wife and great friends supporting me, spending time with the beautiful people at the Michael Lisnow Respite Center in the morning before the race started, pushing hard through 26.2 miles, turned quickly to a tragic scene. I had just crossed the finish line and the medal was being placed around my neck while Shawntel was sitting on the front row of the VIP grandstands where she had cheered me and the other runners on, directly in front of where and when the first bomb went off. When I saw the first explosion, knowing it was right where I had just seen Shawntel, and heard the second one go off, I ran back to see if she was injured and to try to get her to safety.
Fortunately and by the grace of God, we escaped injury. We are still shaken by yesterday’s events and Shawntel hearing is still affected, but we’re okay. But so many others were not as fortunate – there was tragic loss of life and many serious injuries, and our hearts and prayers go out to all the families affected.
Shawntel and I witnessed something yesterday, in the midst of the smoke and the chaos and the tragedy. In the midst of this horrible act, everyone stopped thinking about themselves, they tapped into that unlimited wellspring of compassion that we carry within us and rose to the occasion. We saw courage, and strength and determination, both from people who were injured, and the hundreds of people who rushed to help them. It was a terrible moment in that some among us sought to inflict harm on their fellow human beings. But at the same time, the terrible moment was followed by an immediate outpouring of love and charity. It was humbling to experience. I will never forget.
This kind of situation can knock the scales from your eyes, makes you sit and take notice of what’s truly important. I am feeling so thankful right now. I’m thankful to the responders, all the volunteers and runners who rushed to help, the police, medical teams and fireman who did such an amazing job tending to the wounded. I am thankful that my wife and I were unharmed and that we were able to return home to our children today. I’m thankful for each and every one of you, and I pray that your loved ones are safe as well.
For our members in Boston, and all of those affected by yesterday’s event, know that the thoughts and prayers of the Solavei community are with you.
I will proudly run in next year’s Boston Marathon more committed than ever to show our resilience and to honor those that were lost, injured and all those that were personally affected. Next year’s race will prove to be one of great meaning, healing, reflection and resolve for the Boston Marathon because in times of tragedy, we as Americans always rise up with greater strength and fervor. I will invite all of our members and friends to join me there, whether it is to run a few miles with me, cheer on the runners or just be there, but more importantly to remember and support those of yesterday. We will continue to pray for each of the families hurt by the senseless acts. We will show through our strength that the people of Boston and the United States are not weakened.
Glad that you and Shawntel are home safe!!!! See in Orlando!!!!!
What an inspiring essay Ryan just goes to show how close we can sometimes be – As a Londoner I lived through the IRA bombing campaigns and saw just how resilient we can be. We must not let terrorists think they can ever grind us down.
Ryan and Shawntel~ Truly blessed by your words through his tragedy. God was with you and your family yesterday and I pray for all those effected as well. Thank you for all you do for your Solavei family!
Judie and Laron Trammell~ Seattle, WA
So thankful you and Shauntel are ok. I will be praying for your peace of mind.
God is GOOD! So glad you and Shawntel are home safe. Praying for everyone!
Ryan & Shawntel – we are so thankful you are,okay. Your article is great Ryan.
Thanks for posting.
So glad to hear that you are both safe. Continued blessings to you and your family!
I will continue to say a prayer everyday for all the people hurt, their families and friends.
Ryan I was an eye witness of 9/11 and I know how you and Shawntel are feeling right now. My heart goes out to you guys I know you will never forget the site and the smell. God Bless You Both and God Bless America land that we love. . .
I am very happy that you and your family is back home safe. I will continue to pray for safety as you travel the country helping people live their dreams. Thanks for all you do.
Ryan, thank you for reminding us that even in times of tragedy there is still good to see. I am praising HIm for keeping you, Shawntel and so many others safe. My prayers are with the two of you as well as all who have been affected by this senseless act.
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