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I was finished with this...

Over the last few days, I had thought that I was pretty much done with writing on a certain topic. I thought that what I wanted to say, had been said. What I needed to say, it was already out there for you to read.

Turns out, I was wrong.

When I posted that photo, my intent was nothing more than to post it. For me, it was something that I thought should be seen- but nothing that I thought would turn into this. I never thought much about being quoted by anyone other than my blogging friends, who pretty much do it because at least one of them has to once a week for our "crime blogging carnival".

But, seeing your reactions here, and at other places- I'm amazed at your thoughts on this tattoo. Your thoughts on the case in general.

For those of you who have asked, yes I am aware that two guards were fired as a result of this photo. And, I have commented that I am not in agreement with that. My choice would to be to focus on how this happened, not how this story got out. As for whether I believe the guards are in any way connected with this other than the "leak", no, I have no reason to believe so. And, as odd as it may seem to some of you, if I knew now that posting the photo would have had this outcome- I would not have done it.

My intent, and those that read here often can hopefully verify for me, is not to be quoted by the AP. My intent is to give a voice to those that often find themselves without one.

I choose to write the stories I do, because I am touched by them, because I can relate to so many of them... and to hopefully be able to make others aware of what is lurking out there. And because I want those who read the stories to also be touched by them. As a society, I believe it is our responsibility to work together against those that would harm our children- and I hope that by sharing these stories you are moved to take an effort to make a difference.

Katie's story was heartbreaking, as so many of the stories I write about are. Yet, I know that there is nothing I can say to her family, and those that love her which will help in easing their pain. However- I believe that their efforts to do something truly wonderful in her name, can be further accomplished with our help, and perhaps a small act on our part can bring them a little more healing. I'm again providing the link to Katie's Park, and requesting that those of you moved by her story who can provide assistance, and would like to, take the time to look at the site. Perhaps her park will even inspire you to create something locally that will benefit the children of your hometown.

I'm sure that this story will soon cool down, and the news will shift to a different story- as it always does. But I hope that those who have seen it, who have taken the time to read Katie's story will take it to heart, and remember her always. It's our job to make this world a better place, and we owe it to all the Katie's that we have lost do to whatever it takes to accomplish that.


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