Finding a Way to Win, the Day After 9/11

By Kelly Bragg - September 12, 2001. I win! Yep, that's right, I win!

Yesterday the cowards won. Instead of running, I sat stunned beyond belief while I watched events unfold. I was shocked, numbed, sad, angry... indescribably angry about what happened. I couldn't tear myself away from the television, hoping that somehow I would wake up and all this would be a dream. I was so numb that I allowed the terrorists to win. They managed to stun me into changing my routine, somehow managing to achieve their goal of paralysis.

Not today! After reading all the posts from everyone, I felt better. And I realized that we must not let the terrorists win... not today, not tomorrow, not ever! While running might not save the world, it will save me from going crazy over this.

I ran four miles in the sunshine. I ran down to the ocean and stared out at the sea. Seagulls and egrets, herons and lizards: Although I ran alone I had lots of company today. I ran fast and furious at times, angry and frustrated at not being able to help, not being able to resolve this terrible situation. I ran slow and choked up during other times, unable to prevent myself from crying at the thought that there are those who will not run again. But through it all... I ran. I ran. I ran. I win.

Go win one yourself today, OK?

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." - Gandhi