United, We Run-Weekly Column

Sen. Mike Johanns

On Monday, one week after twin blasts rocked the heart of Boston, more than a thousand well-wishers braved the snow and rain in downtown Lincoln for a memorial run to raise money for the victims of the Boston Marathon attack. They weren’t the only ones. Communities across the country held runs and other events, picking up the torch for the world class race that was so abruptly stopped by evil.

Last week was a difficult week for America. Four lives were cut short in Boston. Nearly 200 others were injured. Many people who have logged countless miles doing what they love will never run again. And the people of West, Texas experienced a different, albeit equally devastating loss when a factory fire erupted, claiming fourteen lives.
Tragedies come in many forms. From earthquakes to factory fires to craven acts of terror, these events can leave a community and a country wondering how to respond. Folks in Boston and their fellow Americans across the nation answered that question without skipping a beat.
With courage and resolve.
Courage to lace up our shoes and run for those who cannot. Courage to recommit to what it is that makes America great. And resolve to stand together, stare wickedness in the face and say, “We are stronger than cowardly attempts of intimidation.”
Last Thursday, in the midst of an unprecedented manhunt, and with many questions still unanswered, a packed Boston arena stood shoulder to shoulder and proudly sang our national anthem—a poignant display of resiliency and solidarity. They were a sound illustration of a nation shaken but not shattered. Across the country came other heralded tributes to the victims and their families. From prayer vigils to fundraisers to sporting events, Americans from all walks of life offered support in the best way they knew how.
In some respects, those who wish to strike fear in our hearts through acts of terror actually achieve the opposite result—deepening our determination to live freely and to express our patriotism. When I was governor, I was moved by the outpouring of support and patriotism by Nebraskans attending a vigil at the state capitol in the wake of the September 11 attacks. Impromptu exhibitions of allegiance witnessed back then are again on display across our state today in salute to all those affected by recent heartbreak. Nebraska has always been characterized as a state of neighbor helping neighbor. Our willingness to come to the aid of unknown and untold fellow Americans from miles away is truly inspiring. I am thankful for the message our state and Americans across the country are sending to those impacted: You are not alone, and our country will endure.
As we continue to pray for the victims and families touched by tragedy last week and lift many voices in one resounding chord of community, I know that last week has made a strong nation even stronger. That the forces wishing to do us harm will never break the spirit of America. And that Boston will, indeed, run again