Staying Aware, Staying Anchored
Situational Awareness for Women: Kelsey Smith’s Story
On June 2, 2007, Kelsey Smith, an 18-year-old just graduated from high school, went to a Target store in Overland Park, Kansas, to buy a gift for her boyfriend. It was an ordinary Saturday in broad daylight. But as she loaded her purchases into her car, she was abducted in the parking lot and later found murdered.
Kelsey’s parents turned their grief into purpose by creating the Kelsey Smith Foundation to teach situational awareness and personal safety, so others could avoid similar tragedies.
Why This Matters for Us
Kelsey’s story is heartbreaking, but it reminds us that danger does not only exist in dark alleys. It can appear in the places we consider safe.
As people of faith, we live in a fallen world. Proverbs 27:12 says:
“The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.”
God calls us to trust Him fully while also using wisdom and practical action to protect ourselves and those we love.
✅ 5 Action Steps You Can Take Today
✅ 1. Park with Purpose.
Choose well-lit, visible areas and back into parking spaces for quick exits.
✅ 2. Scan Before You Exit.
Look around before getting out or approaching your vehicle. Notice who is nearby.
✅ 3. Avoid Distractions.
Keep your phone away and your eyes up while walking to and from your car.
✅ 4. Trust Your Gut.
If something feels wrong, listen to it. Return to the store or change your path.
✅ 5. Pray for Wisdom.
Ask God for discernment and peace as you go about your day.
Faith Reflection
Taking practical safety steps is not a lack of faith; it is a way to honor God while caring for ourselves and others. We are not called to live in fear but to be wise stewards of the lives God has entrusted to us.
Call to Action
If you found this helpful, would you forward it to a friend, daughter, or parent you care about? Let’s honor Kelsey’s memory by living aware and equipping others to do the same.
Here’s a safety checklist:
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P.S. I’d love your input!
What safety concerns do you have for yourself or your family? What would you like to learn about faith-based situational awareness?
Hit reply or comment below. Your feedback will shape future posts!