My heart and deepest condolences go out to Vicky, Toni, Chris Jr, Lily, and the rest of the Cornell family. I can’t even begin to imagine what kind of deep emotional pain you all must be going through and every time I try, I get tears in my eyes. No one should have to grow up without their dad. No one should have to know what life is like without their soulmate.

I know I’m just a fan who unfortunately never got to meet Chris and I never got to be lucky enough to get to know him, but I feel like I do know him through his music. Maybe that’s just how his music is, it makes everyone feel like they know him on a deep personal level, almost as though he’s talking directly to all of us through his music. His memory will never die or fade away and lately I’ve been feeling like he’s been with me. Of course, I believe that he’s with all of us. Also, it’s obvious just how much he loves his family. From everything I read and heard, there was nothing he wouldn’t do for his family or even for his friends. I’m guessing the same could be said for us, his fans. Just by looking at his pictures, it’s obvious that he loved his family, friends, and all of us, aka his fans.

I know it’s wishful thinking, but I wish there was a way to bring him back. I feel as though I lost a member of my own family and it still hurts, even now. We must all stand together and help each other through this horrible tragedy. We are the #ArmyOfOne and we must battle against the negativity. Spreading love, warmth, happiness, and positivity is always better. Together, we will all be able to change the world for the better. I will never stop standing up for and defending Chris, his kids, and his family. I even started The Army Of One Foundation to help honor Chris and to help abused or neglected children and even abused or neglected animals. Hopefully it will be a great way to help keep his memory alive as well as help with carrying on his amazing legacy. Also started the Chris Cornell Army and Army Of One on both Twitter and Instagram as well as on Facebook. All in the hopes of honoring and remembering Chris and keeping him alive through the memories and through his music. He is still with us all, even if it isn’t how we want.

Stay strong, he doesn’t want anyone to be sad or to hurt. We must find happiness and hold on to that happiness, whatever it may be. For Chris, for each other. Together, we will change the world for the better. Also, my all time favorite Chris Cornell song is You Know My Name.  #ChrisCornell #CornellsArmy #ArmyOfOne

Alyson