I am a girl from Atlanta, Georgia. I saw Chris Cornell at the Fox Theatre on his last tour with Soundgarden. While I was there, I met a guy named William, who told me about how he met Chris before the show and got his autograph on his guitar. I was in awe, and slightly jealous. We talked and jammed to The Pretty Reckless for a while, and when Chris came out to sing Incessant Mace, we were so hyped! We loved hearing him sing Outshined as well, especially since half of the audience was drunk-singing along with it (which was hilarious). Then, Chris started singing Burden In My Hand. The second he hit the first note, William reached for my hand and took it. I’ll never forget the smile he gave me when he did. We held hands for the rest of the concert, letting Chris’ voice wash over us like rays of sunshine on a warm summer morning. William and I are still together. We love each other more and more everyday.

Chris’ death was devastating to us, because he was someone who we both truly admired for his talent and his attitude towards everything. He has done so much for so many people in the world. He was a rose in a garden full of thorns, a voice in a silent crowd, and a ray of light in darkness.

Vicky, you are a beautiful and strong woman. Keep going. Lillian and Toni, I hope you both grow up to be like your father. I’m not talking about following his exact footsteps in the music industry, I’m talking about being kind, being true to yourself, and working hard for what you want in life. You are both capable of amazing things. Don’t ever try to impress anyone or conform to anyone’s standards. Screw the media! Do what you believe is right!

I can’t possibly speak for every fan of Chris Cornell, but I think it’s safe to say that we all miss him very much.

As for William and I, we only have this to say: Thank you Chris, for everything. We love you.

Laura