The loss of innocence.

At some point in a child's life they are no longer as innocent as they were the day before. It could be the death of a grandparent, a violent act against them or someone they love, or even just finding out the truth of Santa. As parents we do everything in our powers to keep this loss from happening, at least until they are much, much older . . . preferably after they're grown and out of our house. Unfortunately, that's not always possible.

Last Sunday, September 18, 2011 at approximately 10 P.M., my fourteen year old daughter lost a bit of her innocence. We were informed that her best friend, one of the sweetest girls I've ever met, had been murdered the day before. The following week was a hard one. Lots of tears and used Kleenex rained down upon our lives.

Last night, we attended the memorial service for this beautiful and talented girl. It was a lovely service and quite befitting such a child. The world is a better place having known her. Unfortunately, her life was cut so short that the world will never know what she could have done.

Rest in peace, sweet girl. You will always be remembered.

And to my own daughter: I'm so sorry that you had to lose your innocence at such a young age. If I could have prevented that I most definitely would have. Keep her in your heart, thoughts, actions and she'll always be with you.