Like most other cities, Boston has been dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Just over a week ago, Mayor Marty Walsh implemented a 9 p.m.-6 a.m. "recommended curfew" which is expected to last through May 4th. Those who must work during the day are greeted by desolate, empty streets.
Seven years have now passed since Boston experienced the horror of the Boston Marathon Bombing and those events must seem so very far away. Yet I cannot help but think the days following the terrorist attack those who lived in Boston got a taste of what we are experiencing now. The entire MBTA was shutdown as authorities from Boston and surrounding communities killed one of the bombers and subdued the other in nearby Watertown four days after the attack. For more than a week after the attack Boylston Street (one of Boston's busiest streets) was restricted to personnel in Hazmat suits.
However this state of affairs would not last long. In time, the surviving bomber was brought to justice. And there was a determination to make the Boston Marathon a bigger affair than ever (albeit with much tougher security).
The same cannot be said now. Oh, the curfew may be a temporary measure. But even when it is relaxed the social distancing measures won't necessarily follow. There will be no vow to make the Boston Marathon or any other event bigger and better than ever. It is impossible to move ahead if we cannot put things behind us.
"Boston Strong" became the rallying cry after the bombing. But this involved people coming together both spiritually and physically. The latter is not possible under the present circumstances whatever our good intentions. I hope Boston stays strong but it must first stay safe.
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