Vince Lombardi once said, “Adversity doesn’t build character, it reveals it.” A terrorist attack on your city is more adversity than anyone should face. We saw NYC come together and rebuild after the World Trade Center attacks and their rival city of Boston has done the same. One year ago today, I sat on the couch watching SportsCenter when breaking news came in of an explosion at the finish line of the Boston Marathon. That immediately became a moment I’ll remember as vividly as 9/11 as I was sucked into coverage the rest of the day and most of the week. I also remember following on twitter and switching between news outlets that Friday and the sense of relief I felt when the hunt was over. I shed tears at times and found myself pulling for Boston – the city, the people, the teams – as they embraced being “Boston Strong.”

Today, I watched coverage of the ceremony and moment of silence in dreary Boston. For those who think that rain is tears from heaven, that sure seems fitting as we remember those who were lost and injured last year. The city was literally shaken and grappling with what happened, but the outpouring of love and support helped everyone to look forward. Each sports team in the city gave the people something to look forward to and they were able to celebrate their strength together in the largest venues. Even when my beloved team lost to the Red Sox, I was moved by emotion when they won the World Series for the city they love. To the city of Boston, I would like to say thank you. From the first responders to the runners and spectators who jumped into action, your actions are admirable. Your strength and courage has been remarkable. Thank you for always keeping your spirit strong and showing the world how to overcome tragedy.

I look forward to watching a near record crowd run next Monday as a final statement the city has persevered through unthinkable tragedy. The character they showed during such adversity is remarkable. I hope everyone can enjoy Patriot Day on Monday as the world watches the city again be Boston Strong.