Entrance to Boston Marathon Memorial

The events during the past 24 hours in Paris have reminded us of the victory of one city to overcome terrorism, fear, and sadness.  That city is Boston, Massachusetts.  The city that one year after an attack at the 2013 Boston Marathon bolstered the strength of a community in facing those who seek to do us harm and tear at the basic fabric of humanity.

Everywhere we went in Boston during the week of the 2014 Boston Marathon, there were signs.  Signs of solidarity.  Signs of support.  Signs that Boston was indeed strong.

Row of daffodils in a Boston church window

And so were we, those of us who were only in that city for a few short days.   We came away with a sense of pride and strength at the efforts of a people banded together, victorious over all that had transpired one short year before.

Sign posted on a restaurant marquee — Boston, 2014.

But man has much to ponder.  Much to consider. Much to take on with challenges around the world and right here at home.

Photo of Jim Miller who ran his 100th marathon in Boston, 2014.

Our hearts are with you — Paris and Boston —  and so many other places around the world. May we be victorious in our resolve to seek answers, and, in so doing, bond with one another to protect what we hold so dear.

For more interpretations of the theme of the Weekly Photo Challenge: Victory, click here.