Patriot's Day, April 15, 2013, will be long remembered not only for its significance as a civic holiday, uniquely a New England holiday, but for the tragic terrorist bombings that occurred in Boston, Massachusetts. Unfortunately, this is not the first of such horrific events to occur on this important day in history.
- The Oklahoma City Bombing (April 19, 1995),
- The Waco assault (April 19, 1993),
- The Columbine School Shooting (April 20, 1999), and
- The Virginia Tech massacre (April 16, 2007), for starters.
Two of those tragedies—the Virginia Tech massacre and the Waco assault—were on Monday, the Patriot's Day of those years.
Embrace the Past...
Patriot's Day commemorates the opening battles of the American Revolutionary War, the battles of Lexington and Concord, both held on April 19, 1775. The holiday has become best known for the marathon and is in fact also referred to as "Marathon Monday," which is always held on Patriots' Day, the third Monday of April.
Empower the Present...
While there are those whose negativity toward America results in heinous acts, such negativeness does not deter the strength and honor of America's countrymen and women. We the people, I pledge allegiance, United we stand, In God we trust are all symbolic of our nation's empowerment.
Enrich the Future...
Out of tragedy comes strength: May America emerge stronger and wiser remembering that strength and wisdom are based on principles of hope, faith and courage remaining resolute even in the face of serendipitous challenges.
A prayerful moment...
Take a moment to lift your heart in thoughtful prayer for those injured and for the families of those whose lives were lost as a result of this terrible tragedy. Their plight is one of both emotional and physical trauma. Events of today changed their lives forever!
