R.I.P. Nailah Franklin

I was saddened when the police positively identified the body found in the woods as Nailah Franklin. What has hit home with me is that it could've been me or any of my friends. We go for days, not thinking that we're in any kind of danger. I drive home alone most nights...late nights. Anyone could come up to my car and try to abduct me. It's such a sad course of events because she was young, very pretty and excelling in her career. I sincerely hope that they catch whoever did this to her and that s/he is prosecuted to the highest extent of the law. While I didn't know her personally, I have seen her on campus several times. Going to a university like the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, you begin to recognize the few African-American faces you see. I've taken this horrible situation as a wake up call to be more aware of my surroundings, live each day with a purpose, and always be thankful and grateful for waking up another day. Her family and friends remain in my thoughts and prayers as they continue to deal with this. I hope that we (humans, Americans, etc.) can take this negative and gain some wisdom from it. Although it's a horrible thing that happened to her, I hope that we don't focus on the sadness, but use that negative energy in a positive way. Hug your family and friends every chance that you get. Love someone without reservation. Do something with all the passion you have inside. peace and blessings!

~k