91/92 Ford Escort Wagon won't turn over

Thank you in advance for your help! My "built in 91" Ford Escort Wagon (not sure of the mileage, it's at home and I'm at work, but it's lower than the usual mileage for a car of this age) won't turn over/start. I put in the key and turned it. Nothing. When it would normally take a little more effort to turn the key, it was soft, it didn't "catch" at the end where it was supposed to actually turn on the car. I am not explaining this very well, sorry- I am a girlie girl. The car made no noise at all when I tried to start it. My radio came on and I can turn on the headlights. All my dashboard warning lights came on and stayed on even after I removed the key. I tried again and again, nothing. I have had no other problems with this car recently, and I take care of it (maintenance) like I'm supposed to! What could be the problem? Thank you!