Mayer: Terror at the Boston Marathon Gives Perspective

npr.org

Whenever our nation faces a national crisis or in the case of the events at the Boston Marathon, an act of terror, it often gives perspective. This perspective really should happen every day as attacks along with starvation and cruelty are constantly happening throughout the world. When it happens on US soil, the feeling hits close to home and we collectively ask questions about the relative importance of many aspects in our every day lives.

Anyone who works in sports faces this head on. In the grand scheme of things, how important are sports when lives are at stake? Who cares about a baseball score or a football draft when the Twin Towers come down and countless people have their lives changed forever?

The Boston Marathon may emphasize this even more seeing as it is most definitely a sporting event, one of the most distinguished marathons around. Many run to raise money for charity or for personal pride, but there are also athletes looking to claim victory. In the moments the explosions happened it no longer mattered who won the race or came in the top ten. As it should be, all attention went to the victims and trying to save and help injured citizens.

Courtesy boston.com

On a tangible level, it is true sports become insignificant when such horrific events occur. However, for the mental conscious of our nation (and for that matter any nation that encounters such an event) I believe sports actually take on a greater role. Many of the Boston Marathon runners crossed the finish line and ran straight to the hospital to donate blood. If that act is not what sports is all about, I'm not sure what is...perseverance in the face of peril.

It's true the Boston Celtics game was cancelled and Boston Bruins game was postponed due to necessary compliance with increased security measures. But have no doubt, the teams will get back onto the court and ice. The Red Sox will don their jerseys and take the field. The players will play without fear and fans will show up to support them.

Courtesy fun107.com

Sports has a much greater impact on our society then many are willing to admit. We come together in the face of adversity through sports. We show a camaraderie with teams and fans who are usually considered enemies. New Yorker's don't like the Red Sox, but empathize with them and understand  we are all family under the American Flag and will move forward.

Sports are not important compared to the health and well being of family, friends, and for that matter any person. However, that does not make sports insignificant. To the contrary, sports are one of the best tools we have to band together and triumph over evil.