Peace for Megan Sharpton
Believe it or not, I am not a very public person. I don't do well in front of crowds. I really didn't ask to have this message put in my hands but I think it's an important one, so I try to do my best. I got to speak to some folks last night about Megan and share her most important story in hopes that just one girl hears her and listens. My voice cracked and I shook in my boots (quite literally) but here is what I said (please share with the women you love in your life) For Megan:
My name is Kelly Sharpton. I am here to speak to you about violence against women because my daughter cannot. On the night of July 1st her killer lured her out into the darkness under guise of a job opportunity. I am sure she left her house happy, a little excited, and unfortunately unaware of the danger that awaited her.
She was smart and funny and beautiful. She was caring and kind and compassionate towards everyone she met. She was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, cousin and friend. She was studying to be a nurse like her sister, father and grandmother.
That night she was murdered she had mace and a stun gun. He had a pistol. She had no chance. She grabbed things out of her car and left them at the places he took her. She knew she was in trouble. Her terror must have been immeasurable. Her bravery just as great. She fought and the coward that he is took her life for it.
Always be aware. Always take someone with you and let people know your plans. Meet only in public places. Check references and referrals. Be safe. Carry her story with you as you walk through this life. When you feel the hair stand up on the back of your neck, trust it. It’s that little voice telling you to get away. Listen to it…because her name is Megan and she gave her life to tell you this.
Believe it or not, I am not a very public person. I don't do well in front of crowds. I really didn't ask to have this message put in my hands but I think it's an important one, so I try to do my best. I got to speak to some folks last night about Megan and share her most important story in hopes that just one girl hears her and listens. My voice cracked and I shook in my boots (quite literally) but here is what I said (please share with the women you love in your life) For Megan:
My name is Kelly Sharpton. I am here to speak to you about violence against women because my daughter cannot. On the night of July 1st her killer lured her out into the darkness under guise of a job opportunity. I am sure she left her house happy, a little excited, and unfortunately unaware of the danger that awaited her.
She was smart and funny and beautiful. She was caring and kind and compassionate towards everyone she met. She was a daughter, a sister, an aunt, cousin and friend. She was studying to be a nurse like her sister, father and grandmother.
That night she was murdered she had mace and a stun gun. He had a pistol. She had no chance. She grabbed things out of her car and left them at the places he took her. She knew she was in trouble. Her terror must have been immeasurable. Her bravery just as great. She fought and the coward that he is took her life for it.
Always be aware. Always take someone with you and let people know your plans. Meet only in public places. Check references and referrals. Be safe. Carry her story with you as you walk through this life. When you feel the hair stand up on the back of your neck, trust it. It’s that little voice telling you to get away. Listen to it…because her name is Megan and she gave her life to tell you this.
