People

Fact:  There are some crappy people in this world.  In the past 8 or so hours, I feel that I have seen some of the worst of the worst.  From the horrible bombings on one of the most celebrated holidays back home to drunkards insulting coworkers.  I don't know how people get to such a sad place in their lives that they feel justified in their actions.  It's always hard being away from home.  It was terrifying to think of friends and family back there.  And then not having phones working was pretty traumatic.  

You know what gives me hope though?  The great people of the world.  "Boston is a tough and resilient town."  I admire my friends.  People who have checked in with me to make sure my family and friends are okay, which they are, gratefully.  I have seen incredible acts of humanity today. I have friends in Boston who have opened their homes to people who need it.  I hear of runners who were forced to stop the race, who then in turn, went to the hospital to donate blood to those who needed it.  So many people went to donate blood that they are turning them away now.  

People of Boston ran to the help of the victims.  And I have watched on Facebook as hundreds of my friends have extended their prayers towards Boston.  There are famous football players helping victims to safety.  I watched my coworker turn the other cheek when a crazy man made some appalling comments.  

My brother sent an email today from his mission, not knowing what happened today in Boston.  He opened his email with this: "It always makes me very sad that no one even realizes it is Patriot's Day in California. I love Patriot's day. It is the best, but none of the missionaries here even know what it is. :( Sad day."

I am grateful for people who understood that while they maybe don't get it, they know the impact that it made on the people of Boston...and me.  I am grateful for family who checked in.  I'm grateful for a fiance who takes care of me, physically and emotionally.  I am grateful for a people that turn to God in prayer.  I am grateful for a knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  

All in all, I am grateful for a knowledge of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  There are some crappy people.  But I am grateful that I get to strive to be more like Jesus Christ everyday.  I am grateful that I was raised in a way that I was taught to be a better person and to learn from mistakes as I grow.  I am grateful for the people in my life who choose to do the same.  I am grateful for the people of Boston.  My prayers go out to them.  I hope yours do too.