Through these last few weeks, I have seen the Fargo community go through so many emotions: fear, anger, hurt, sadness, confusion, hate, love, and grief. More emotions than I have ever seen in this community, and at such an enormity. In a town that seems to keep dividing, we came together as one to share our emotions and unite; all because of one woman: Savanna.

It was a story that shook the nation; but even more than that, it was a story that shook this community, and this small state, to its absolute core. A state that once felt safe to all, suddenly put fear in every home. How could this happen?

In a place that seemed untouchable, horror struck. Through the many search efforts brought upon by her family, law enforcement, and by strangers in the community. Through the simple click of the “share” button for any post that would remind people to look for her. Through the simple fact that she crossed our minds every single day. We did what we could to bring Savanna home. May she always know that everyone, even those who did not know her, did everything they could for her. We looked for her, cared for her, and never gave up.

Through this tragedy, unity was brought. We gathered together to love, cherish, hope, pray, and search for this young woman and her baby. Hugs were given a little tighter. Prayers weren’t skipped at night. And, more “I love yous” were said as a loved one headed out the door. As the town learned of the truth of the horror, we began to grieve together. Grieve for this young woman, this little girl, her boyfriend, and her family. Although it’s painful to think that something so devastating had to happen for us to be reminded that at any moment everything we know and love may be taken away, may she always know that she will be the reason we love a little harder, and never let those people go.

I won’t even waste my breath on those who participated, or knew about, this cruel, cruel act. No bail is high enough, and no time is long enough.

To her boyfriend, family members, and little baby girl, may you always know this community surrounds you. May you go to us for guidance, for support, and for a glimmer of hope. Your strength through this all was real and raw. You stood tall, even when you had every right to fall, just so you could keep working on bringing Savanna home. And, even with all that has happened, you kept your love alive, and knew that this little baby girl was your piece hope, your happiness, your miracle, and your piece of Savanna. What you’ve shown the community through your strength, optimism, and hard work, is something that we can all learn from. May you all know the impact you’ve had on us.

To little Haisley Jo, may you know you’ve changed, and touched, more world’s than you may ever realize. Not just your mom’s, your dad’s, your grandma’s or grandpa’s, you’ve touched us all. You were a glimmer of hope for us all – the sunshine after the storm. I hope you grow up and know that you have a community backing you up, and loving you unconditionally from miles away. You are a piece of Savanna, and may you always carry that legacy on.

And to Savannah, may you know you are now a part of us all. Sister, daughter, friend. You are loved, and remember, and will never be forgotten. You have gained a whole army behind you, who will never stop fighting for you, and for your justice. You changed our worlds, and gave us the perspective of life that we’ve been needing to see.

This story isn’t over yet; her story isn’t over yet. Savanna will live on. The impact she has had won’t dwindle, and her story won’t fade in our minds. She has a whole family, and a little baby girl, that will carry on her legacy forever. May she rest in peace, and always know her impact.