Last year, the Boston Marathon became a day of tragedy, destruction, and pain caused by the horrible actions of individuals who wanted to bring hate to our city. At Charlesgate, we have a Marathon party each year as our office is only two blocks from the finish line. Last year’s was like every other, with laughter and friends and calzones made by Mrs. DiMella. Until that moment when chaos erupted and the Marathon became ever earmarked with a shadow of loss.

None of us there that day will forget the scene on Boylston Street with smoke and people running, crying and trying to understand what was happening. None of us will forget the feeling of despair as a day of celebration turned into something we may never fully understand.

But we will also not forget the strength that Boston showed as a city and the courage and determination of our emergency workers and leadership. President Obama may have said it best at the speech he delivered at the Cathedral, “Boston may be your hometown but we claim it, too. It’s one of America’s iconic cities. It’s one of the world’s great cities. And one of the reason(s), the world knows Boston so well is that Boston opens its heart to the world.”

We are proud to be a part of the Boston business community. And we are proud to be able to help people create a sense of home in our wonderful city. Every time we help someone find a new home, we add to the spirit and strength of the Boston landscape. And we love it.

Boston is a city full of pride, determination, and the best sports teams around. We look forward to continuing to build this energy for years to come.