We were Boston -

on a damp day in May we made our

way from Fenway Park through the crowded

excitement of Yawkey Way,

we traveled through the energy of the strong,

hearts saddened by recent tragedy yet united

as one through the hearts of a city proud

We marched through Kenmore square

with fans cheering out loud, living life

but recognizing our heroes sacrifice that turned

a marathon of tears into a finish line

where togetherness echoed strong -

this, the city I will always belong, has grown

resilient just as the pavement on Boylston Street,

stained with memories, has become the concrete

of many hearts.

We were Boston -

on just another day in May, but a special

day in our lives as we studied the candles, admired the sneakers

that hung in an honor of support and looked into the eyes

of the victims and heroes whose lives

will always be present within the strength of all our mind

We will always be Boston

no matter how damp the skies or how saddened

we are in our own eyes, we will always appreciate

and celebrate the freedom of the strong

We are Boston,

we are one.

© 2013

Tarringo T. Vaughan