Destiny Norton

It’s late--after midnight--and by the time this is posted the news I have will no longer be new. It will, however, be as unfortunate and sobering at whatever hour this is read. I am deeply saddened to have just learned that the body of five year-old Destiny Norton has been found in the basement of a neighbor’s home. A suspect has been identified and apprehended, but that is all I know at this time.

We were having a great evening visiting with neighbors, gathered with dogs and children underfoot, celebrating our “Lymanite” status and “Pioneer Day” as the biggest fireworks show in the state happens a block and a half from our street at Liberty Park. Ironically, this park is also a mere few blocks from where Destiny's family lives, and where she ultimately came to rest. This is a crime against nature and humanity, and it hits close to home for us literally and figuratively. And while I cannot claim to know the grief this family will face in the days to come, I know the discomfort and unease I feel sending my partner and best friend out into the night to uncover details pertaining to this unfortunate circumstance. Just imagining a personal loss of this nature chills me to the core. It is utterly incomprehensible. I also know that when and if I can finally retire to my bed this night I will hug my four legged fur babies tightly and insist they remain close by so I can watch over them, and they me.

Rest in peace dear child, as I pray your family may find solace in the love and support of fellow family members and friends in your absence, this dark hour.