Many people writing many things about Boston this week. This stands out for me…

From Evernote:

What Can You and I Learn From the Boston Marathon? Clipped from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jinny-ditzler/boston-marathon-tragedy_b_3094431.html?utm_hp_ref=gps-for-the-soul&ir=GPS%20for%20the%20Soul

I have no idea how to keep us secure or how to rid the world of evil, but I just saw a photo that tells us exactly what we can do. Perhaps you, too, saw the picture of Martin Richard, the 8-year-old who was killed in the explosion, holding up a school artwork poster he’d once painted on which he gives us a chillingly clear message:

"No more hurting people."

Instantly he touched my heart — that’s a lesson I can do my best to remember, as can you. While I’d like to think that I’d never intentionally hurt anyone, I know I have done so, more than I’ll ever know. I believe that if each of us follow Martin’s plea at a whole new level, the world will be a safer place.

Let’s begin by contemplating the question, "What do I do that hurts others?" Here’s how I’d have to respond:

• "I know better, so I don’t bother to listen as well as I should."
• "I silently judge others."
• "I don’t always take the time to reach out when I know I’m needed."
• "I don’t remember that others have the answers — they don’t need my good ideas."
• "I interrupt."
• "I forget that I’m loved and appreciated."

I know there’s more, but that’s it for now — and plenty to work on. So, if you’re as moved as I am by Martin, what are your answers to this question? Take just five minutes to make a note of them.

Secondly, ask yourself, "How can I remember not to hurt others?" Keep your responses as short and memorable as possible — make it simple and you’re more apt to remember your lessons in the heat of battle. Here are mine:

• Practice loving-kindness.
• Trust others to have the answers.
• Listen and reflect before I respond.

Please do this exercise — just being moved by Martin’s poster makes little difference compared to remembering his message.