One month ago today, a 17-year old girl was murdered on the doorstep of a cafe I used to frequent. This blog post has been writing itself in the far reaches of my mind during that time, and it’s time to put it down on (virtual) paper. Let me preface this by saying that I will be speaking my mind (as always).  

I’m sad. Cara had a big heart. She would stand up for and do anything for her friends. She didn’t take BS from anyone. She had bigger balls than most men, and she walked like she was 10 feet tall. And though I was never on the receiving end, it’s my understanding that she gave great body-slamming bear hugs. We didn’t talk much but the last time we did, the sun was hitting her hair, and I said to her “You’re not going to like this…” and she looked at me warily, as I grinned, cringing, not sure if she’d want to smack me, “but… you’re getting pretty”. No smack. She just grinned back and had a look on her face like “yeah, can you believe it?” as she said “I know”. With that and her take no prisoners, stand up for what you believe in attitude… damn it! She was going to give the world a run for its money.

I’m disappointed.  During the week they were most needed to support the community’s shock and grieving, the cafe owners left town. A tribe needs leadership and guidance, especially when so many of the tribe are young people. Though they held the memorial at the cafe the day after she was taken off life-support, there was and is, no mention of Cara on their website. 

I’m angry. A few of the “elders” (I am calling anyone