Dear Lauren,

I went to your memorial today.

So many people came. I saw teachers, assistant principals, counselors, friends, police that used to work with your dad, friends, and your family, of course. It was beautiful seeing all those people together.

Speaking of beautiful, the church it was out was magical in a way. There were these towering trees everywhere, and when you walked in you were already in the church.

Your dad went up to speak. He said that people were still texting you and that your phone would never go off for as long as he lived. I don't have your number, so this is my solution.

I didn't cry until the pastor started the prayer for you. You were only 13, too young to bear such a burden.

I was rereading When You Trap A Tiger and found some words at the end that resonate with me.

"The sadness goes away, but I don't think the missing ever does." -Sam

We miss you, Lauren. Why'd you do it?