Earlier this month, an acquaintance of my daughter was kidnapped and murdered. Kelsey Smith was only 18, and a beautiful, charming girl with a lifetime of potential ahead of her. Her death shook our area, serving as a reminder that predators do in fact revel in destroying youth, beauty and innocence.When I wrote about her loss earlier, and in conversations with others about Kelsey's death, I encountered so many people who - like me - do not quite know what to do with the confusion, fear and grief that comes in the wake of such a tragic loss.

I've encountered the Registry of Life , a web site which serves as an online memorial honoring the lives of those we have lost. Established by Dr. Wayne Dees, a clinical psychologist, the site offers free "Living Registries" — tribute websites celebrating the lives of loved ones. In addition to sharing memories via stories, registered users can create a time-line chronicling life events, maintain a upload photos and attach audio to their registry page.

For those uncomfortable posting such things publicly, the site offers the option to restrict access to invitation only. Under both the public and private options, Guest Books are available so others can share their memories and offer condolences as well.

I did not find a page for Kelsey, nor do I feel that I know her well enough to presume to create one. I do hope, however, that her parents or friends will consider it. Kelsey's life deserves to be memorialized forever.