Michael Stewart Gorniak

Mike we met the two recipients of your scolarship today. It was sad that you were not there but thier excitment and hopes were so high that it made us feel good that we could help some other creative writers in your name.One of them told me it was so meaningful that the scolarship was in your name since he had learned so much about you and your passing. He also told me it validated the work he was doing in creative writing. I am so glad we started the scolarship, you will never be forgotten. Of course Grandma cried and gave everone hugs! We miss you everyday.

Mike: WE missed you so much at Christmas. The whole family got together but it just wasn't the same without you! Not a day goes by without Grandma and I talking about the wonderful person you were. When we see your friends getting married , having babies and how thier lives are evolving it makes us happy for them, but leaves a hole in our hearts for what might have been for you. I pray that you have found peace. We love and miss you always. Three years later and it seems like only yesterday you left us broken and alone.
Grandpa

Ohhhhh, Michael.

You're always on my mind.

I still find myself reminded of you at every little thing. I want to call you but I can't.

And that sucks.

Ohhhhh, Michael.

You're always on my mind.

I still find myself reminded of you at every little thing. I want to call you but I can't.

And that sucks.

Ohhhhh, Michael.

You're always on my mind.

I still find myself reminded of you at every little thing. I want to call you but I can't.

And that sucks.

this year has been tough mike, but i always find strength & hope when i visit your site.

Dearest Michael,,

I am having a hard time typing this as the tears don't allow me to see very well...
I miss you so much big guy. There are so many things I want to share with you, Wish I could get mad at you, it might make things easier to live with, but the kind of love your family has for you, does not allow for us to be angry... I saw your younger brother yesterday, he looks so much like you now, it took my breath away. He even has a reddish beard, looks just like the one you had, and Ifound myself touching it, thinking how much it reminded me of you. I see your memory garden out our kitchen window every day, and the , fox, deer, rabbits , ,and squirells make themselves at home in your garden, and somehow find peace there. I know your with angels, don't forget tho to tell them your stories and poems you loved so much.. Grandpa and I continue to find pennies we know are a sign from you... take care love. your grandma

Going through some rough times right now. I don't know why I do it, but I keep telling myself that as long as I can push through the bullshit and make it to your birthday everything will be fine. I'm staying strong to see you turn 30 buddy. I miss ya...

Walking through a field of tall grass with a glowing yellow sun at my back. I hear a small voice call out to me " wait for me Dad".....
I could feel the presence of my beloved son. Knew that he was with me again--and smiled.
Memories consume me; whether Im awake, or not.
They have no boundaries or limits within my aging mind.
The brain, the most complex component comands us to think,dwell, remember and regret,and I succomb. Alone. Night after night, and still, another walk in the sun beckons me.......
Love Always Dad

Mike we miss you so, Grandma and I are lost without you. Not a day goes by that we don't shed a tear and ask why you left us. You were so much a part of our lives and when we hear from your friends we realize what a void you have left in all our lives. You were special to us and allways will be. God bless you and keep you . We love you always.

Miss you Mike

Mik-Gooliak!!
Just thinkin' about you, man. I miss you a lot, you are always on my mind, and I especially think about your grandparents a lot. Your grandma is a very special lady, as I have come to find out myself, although you always told me as much!! Hope you are enjoying the view from where you are, but wish you could see it from here...
loving you...
I think I'll have myself a BEER!!
xoxo
<3 <3 <3
sars

Dearest Michael:

On April 14th, your grand-pa and I attended a luncheon in downtown Denver, to meet two of the recepiants of your scholarship we had started two years ago. These young creative writers reminded us so much of you, that we could actually feel your presence in the resturant with us, causing me personally to shed some tears and yet feel so honored that we could help others fulfill their dreams. You would have liked them a lot,as they were both very smart, creative, and so much like you.
Not a day goes by, that your family does not think of you and miss you . We pray you are at peace, and we know without a doubt, you are keeping busy. Big hugs, loving you alway's,
Your Grandma & Grandpa

I miss you buddy... Trying to be strong through these tough times... Wish you could bless me with your positivity right now...

Mike we celebrated your Brothers birthday last night. He is now 18 and he, like all of us wish you were here with us. As we set around talking about the times we had as a family, it was so sad that you could not join in. You were such a big part of all our lives and the pain of missing you just does not go away.We love you and miss you more than words can say!

Hey Michael...

Just thinking about you on this day, along with your mom and dad, Mr. and Mrs. Hubler, and Steve.

Love You All,
Mike Dafferner

Merry Christmas Mike. Grandma and I just got home from the Christmas eve candel light service that you loved so much. It didnt seem right this year you not being there with us, but I know you were in spirit when we held the candles high. As you said in your Christmas poem "for a while we were warm...". How we miss you, the holidays are so hard without you. Rest in peace my dear Grandchild.

Dearest Michael,

I miss you so much big guy, and you and I alway's managed to find time to go christmas shopping together this time of year and boy do I miss doing this with you...You were so easy to buy for, and so appreciative of anything anyone ever did for you. I know I used to tell you, what a hard act you were to follow. Ikeep thinking I will hurt less one of these days and cry less but that is not happening,not even close to happening. MerryChristmas grandson, continue to fly with the angels, and keep that smile on your face, I willl see you one of these days, and we will have lots to catch up on...big hugs to my angel... I think yourfriends may wonder where you are, but there should be no question, as you are right over us, flying high with other angels, and at peace in Gods home..

Goolie, Goolie, Such a ...Foolie(?)

I often wonder where you are, if anywhere. Is there life after death? They say energy always has to go somewhere, that it never dies. Isn't that all our "spirit" or "soul" is...energy? Did you get reincarnated? Are you in purgatory?

I often wonder about your grandparents. I think about them, most of all, actually. Would you take it back,if you could? If you saw the hurt you caused, would you change everything?

Are you happy? Did it turn out the way you thought it would? Would you be surprised by the anger that you left behind?

So many questions.

I'll probably never get my answers.

sigh. my friend called me yesterday, as it was the two year anniversary of his friend's suicide. that made me realize again that the two year of yours is rapidly approaching.

i'm still really fucking sad about it, dude.

It's the first snow of the winter season today. Whenever it snows I imagine you sloshing around in your baggy pants as the water soaks up to your knees. I remember a blog you wrote about you watching people prance around in the snow trying not to ruin their superficial articles of clothings. How these people were so obsessed about not ruining their clothes instead of embracing being alive and feeling the wetness and cold of winter. There was just something really innocent and true about your words. They bring me back to my childhood memories where I felt more alive being pelted with snowballs than sitting idlely in my cubicle. I miss your point of view on things. They were very humbling.

yesterday was my birthday, and boy did i miss hearing from you. you alway's sent me cards, that no one else would even think of sending me. they were special because they weren't store bought, you made them yourself, they came from your heart. you were so good with words. if i was lucky, there would be a poem in them. i miss you so much son, my life is so different now. i know we will meet again and be to-gether in god's kingdom, but until that day, i will think of you 24/7 and keep you close to my heart. i look at your pictures daily, and feel so blessed to of had you in my life as long as i did. be at peace. i love you so much.
your dad.....

I got off the train to meet you downtown. It was so cold. You grabbed my hand and put it in the pocket of your big, warm, brown coat. I was grumpy but my attitude did not get you down. Instead, your attitude lifted me up, out of my funk, out of my chill. Thank you for that. I still think about you every day. I still wonder if a split second after you made your decision if you changed your mind. It still hurts to know that you are gone. There will be some cold hands this winter that could use a nice warm pocket.

Dear Michael G.
I never got a chance to meet you but i heard so much about you from your mom and just hearing what she had to say it sounded like you was an amazing man and wanted to accomplish ALOT in your life but you did what you could do Michael i hardly know you but just from the words that your mother told me about you i cant even imagine to put into words what i can only imagine what you would probably be doing right now probably put things together for another book i havent had the chance to read you new one but i will be reading it soon my 16 yr old stepson read your book in one day... your mom came to visit her long lost brother that she hadnt seen in 40 some yrs and gradma Barb gave us your book as a gift and it was amazing when we found out that you wrote it we was shocked to know that a nephew of ours that we never got to meet published a book and really made something of his self Michael as i read some of your comments that people have been sending you it tears me apart to see that you was loved so much that the lord above took you from us so soon that i cant even imagine the kind of person you was and the person you really are now up in heaven lookn down on everyone Michael i want to THANK YOU so much for sending us your mom it was a blessing from above and i know it was something that needed to be done i cant only thank gramma Barb but i also need to Thank you cause you also helped lead your mom to us so Thank You Michael i wish i could of had a chance to meet you but one day i will get to meet the amazing Michael Stewart Gorniak .....LOVE AUNT APRIL CARROLL <3 xoxox

Haven't forgot about you my friend. I've developed a click in my left shoulder. I like to think it's your way of telling me that you're with me in spirit.

Mike: well its my Birthday and the whole family will be here but you. I hope we can feel your presence. I miss you so much and each day is a struggle. Grandma and I say a prayer for you each morning. I hope you are at rest my Grandson.
Love Always Gramps

Mike,

Facebook just let me know that your first book was published today. Congratulations my friend. I know you're beaming with excitement right now. I can imagine you jumping up and down, high-fiving anyone and everyone.

Mike:We are so excited to finally get your book put together.It has been so sad to know you could not help, and we miss you every day. Were having a gathering here at our home, the end of this month to honor you and your book "Poets Never Die", and are crossing our fingers your book will be ready by then. While we will never understand why you left those who loved you so much, we know you have found eternal peace. It is so hard for us to even type this letter to you,because we cannot see the words thru the tears. Lovingly you alway's, Grandma Grandpa

Still think about you, Mike. Miss you buddy,

Hey Mike,
Just stopping by to say hello. I always find peace whenever I visit your site. I know it sounds crazy, but I feel like this is how you would want me to talk to you. Like you're reading this from up above. Miss ya buddy.

Mike: WE attended the Digital Vision competion at UCD last night
and were honored to be there for the presentation of the Michael Gorniak writers award with Craig Volk. It is always sad for us to go to your old campus,but we are so proud of your positive inpact on so many people. The writers award went to a young man with the same style as your writing. Your legacy lives on dear Granson!
Love Grandpa.

Happy Easter Michael: It has been a very hard holiday for us without you. Grandma and I looked at pictures today of all the Easters past, you were such a big part of our lives. We have such wonderful memories of you growing up, all the egg hunts and the excitment of Easter,it breaks our hearts that you are not here now. I hope you are at peace my dear child, we miss you more than words can say. Grandpa
My Dearest Michael;
it is very hard to write this Easter greeting to you, with tears streaming down my face and i really can't see the area to write on, but i will do my best. Another tough holiday with you not here. I miss you so much. I took a nap in your old bedroom today, went thru all the old albumns of you growing up, spoke with your dad today on the phone and felt his pain, then talked to your mom, all I can say to you, is your family and friends miss you more than you will ever know. Be at peace my grand-son, and know how much we love you. forever in my heart, Grandma

Just making my monthly visit to your website. I always laugh when I see the picture of you at Asian Avenue Magazine. How did you ever manage to convince them to let them write for an asian magazine? I know your initials are MSG, but you are very far from being asian my friend. Miss ya buddy!

Mike:
I had the honor of listening to the song your dad wrote for you. It is one of the most beautiful I have ever heard and I know it was inspired totally by the great love he feels for you then, now and always.
Love,
Great Aunt Joyce

Hey man,

I'm just really missing ya right now. Wish I could call you up and just talk about life, ideas, fictional scenarios. I'm glad I met you. You've made me realize that life isn't about the rat race, it's about the time and impact we have on one another. Your ideas still live on in my mind and it puts me to ease when I'm feeling the weight of world. Thanks Gorniak!

I knew Mike during my undergrad at UC Denver. He was a very positive person who loved to have fun. He leaves a legacy through his writing. I just recently found out about his passing away.

Bob and Barb, I truely can share in the pain and emptyness that Michael is no longer with you. We also lost our beloved Sarah. And it is never an easy thing to bury a loved one at such young age. At times it seems so surreal and I hope that I wake up and realize it was just a bad dream and I am sure you are feeling the same also. We aspire to be strong for the rest of our surving kids but try not to forget the one that is no longer with us. It seems that when family is around and I look at an empty chair. I want to believe that it will be filled by the person we lost. And an emptyness begins to overtake me that I cannot control. I pray that you can find peace and fill your heart again with the love and memories he left behind in you both.
Gabriel and Mary from heartbeat support group

Happy Birthday! I know you're chatting up a storm up there!

Dear Mike, Today should be a day of celebration since it is your 28th birthday, but one year ago today, you left us and our world has changed forever.You were our hope, our joy, and our pride. It was such an honor and a blessing to have you for 27 years. We love you and miss you everyday. You will never be forgotten big guy!!! Love, G randma & Grandpa

Can't believe its been a year already. I miss you more today than yesterday. Bob & Barb my thoughts and prayers are with you. I pray that you find strength and live with the passion Mike introduced to this world.

Michael:
Thinking of you today.
Cathy Corcoran

You will always be in my heart Mike. You left us way too soon, but you made the world a better place to live in while you were here. I miss you every day.
Aunt Bonnie

Hey Bud Row///
I don't think you were ever crazy about my nick nme for you, but you were a good sport and tolerated it. I miss you little buddy, you were a great nephew, plus you were the smart one in the family who had so much going for you. I was so proud of your accomplishments, I just wish you would have stayed around longer.I want you to know, I'm sorry I used to rough you up, but it was all in good fun even if your mother and grandmother used to get so upset with both of us.
I will alway's love you. Your Uncle Steve

Mike,
You are remembered every time I step on a basketball court, everytime I hear one of the strange bands you liked in college, evertime someone brings up a funny story and me and you had that same story, everytime I go to Pizza Hut and you are remembed in a whole lot of other scenerios I miss you bud.

Mike: We made it through Thanksgiving, it was so hard without you.Grandma and I miss you so much every day!We had so many good Thanksgivings with you, and we try to remember that but now every day is just so sad. You were not here for our birthdays or Thanksgivingand we missed the funny little cards you made,you were always so thoughtful.Christmas is coming and I dont know how we will endure the first one without you.One thing for sure we will not be able to go to the candle light service at church that we allways shared with you.I love you and miss you so much. Love Gramps

Mike: We only knew Danny for one year before he took his life,but I know how hard that was for both of us.I had the pleasure of being your friend for a good portion of my life. I have so many good,fun memories Everwhere I go and everything I do reminds me of you. I miss you so much. I hope you are hanging out with Danny. I'm sorry I wasnt't there for either of you. It really does seem that only the good die young. I love you! Ryan W.

Mike-
I spend an inordinate amount of time thinking about the difference between life and death. In reality, it's always so sudden and so harsh: someone is there and then they are not. Inside our minds it's never that clear cut is it? Many of us are walking zombies fading in and out all the time. In the movies some great mentor (teacher, coach, whatever) notices you and helps scoop you out. Instead we got stuck with real life. People adore your quirky playful nature but shy away a bit when you bring up the 'big stuff' No one is truly prepared to digest the amount of pain their friend is suffering. Everyone just wants to keep it light until reality makes it impossible. I should've done something to bust through all the porcelain crapand let you'd know you'd been heard. Let you know that desperately grabbing for a foothold on the way down, you find a lot fewer safe places than you expect you will. I know what it feels like, to fall the whole way down, to feel betrayed, to have trusted people you cannot trust. I wish I could've made more of an impression on you last October. You weren't alone. There were still people, reaching, trying to offer help.

honey we just had thanksgiving dinner and i just wanted to say it just wasnt the same without you any way we miss you so much and you will always be loved

Miss ya buddy,

Just needed to stop by and jot down some memories. Remember that big snow storm in 2005 or so? When Guitar Hero just came out? I just remember how excited we were to play pretend rock music on our pretend guitars. I remember a phone call from you about it. You were eating Taco Bell. You really liked Taco Bell. Anyways, that thought made me smile today, just thought I'd relive the moment with you.

honey i just wanted to say i love you and i miss you

Michael,
I have so few computer skills as you know more than anyone, and trying to write anything at all when I am crying so hard, and can't see to type is really difficult, but I am thinking of my favorite bud and felt the need to communicate with you. Remember, how we used to say we could almost read each others minds, had esp with each other? I miss you so much, our lives are so different now, I don't like this new life without you in it, You were the one in our family who could always see the good in things, the forgiving one, the kind one, the smart one. Thank you for all the good years, I feel so blessed to of had your love and respect. You are forever in my heart and soul. Be at peace grandson and know how much you are missed by so many....big hugs,your grandma

Mike,

Sad to say I just found out today that you had passed from catching up with Tim. Needless to say I'm torn up. I just want you to know that you were my first friend when I moved to Colorado. Thanks for helping teach me so much, from how to win at Street Fighter to how to have a good heart. A right heart. I regret it's been so long. I promise I will laugh and live remembering you.

all of my comments sound lame. i wish i had your writing talent :( i guess i can only hope you know what i mean...

i dont even know what to say. i've avoided this website simply because it's been too painful. i don't know what makes today different, i don't feel any different, but here i am.

i still feel incredibly angry, guilty and confused. that is something that will never go away. you PROMISED me you would never do it. i just don't see how you could have left all the people that love you so much. if you are able to read this comment wall at all, clearly you can see how much we love you.

i had the most wonderful dream the other night. it was so beautiful and real. it was the first time i had really seen you in person in my dreams since january. i dont know if you've been avoiding me, or if i'm just not listening/paying attention. i'm still here. i still think about you all the time...i haven't changed really, it's still me, i promise.

i love it when you visit me. please do it more often. i miss your face.

love your best friend from the middle of a really big forest

Dear son,
You are so loved, and missed by so many. Not an hour goes by that someone isn't thinking of you somewhere in some fashion. i can still hear your voice and your laughter and this world is darker with your passing. We all carry on the best we can, your memory is with us every step of the way. I love and miss you, every single minute Michael, you are forever remembered in our hearts. I will never forget how you blessed my life and our family's lives.
Love, dad

Mike-
It's been about a year since the night I met you, and I've just been thinking about it a lot. Just to put it out there, kid. I'm sorry we left you alone. I'm sorry I didn't call you again. I'm sorry I didn't do more to let you know that there are a lot of people like us in the world, and that you were not alone. I'm sorry I didn't advocate more for you. I'm sorry I let it go. I'm sorry. --K

Mike, this is a continuation of messages sent to you:
Michael: Your in our thoughts and prayers everyday. We will never forget the ways you touched each of our lives. we offer you our undying love, and wish for you a perfect and endless poeace.
From all of lyour devoted friends at Contango Magazine, Mae, Kevin, raja, James, Derek and Anna.
When the doors of perception are cleansed, things will appear as they truly are . Infinite. Can't wait to see you on the other side buddy. I know your alway's with me. Jake
Michael G: Sometimes I feel you are still down their in Denver, causing a stir, being creative and rooting for mel to do the same. You are one of the kindest souls I have ever known. You saw the goodness in everyone and I wish moe people were like that. You were a true original, and although I never got enough of you, I have enough stories to last a lifetime. See ylou down the road good friend. Ryan...
The poets and writers be but fragile beings, your art will soon be spread far and wide and nutured a new life amidst your ashes. farewell good friend, Ben
(see the next posting)

Michael, we released your ashes last sunday, and had a family memorial in the beauriful green belt that you loved so much. It wa such a tearful event, but we felt we had to release your free spirit., even tho we miss having your here with us, we knew it was time for you to fly. We had messages to you, tied to all the balloons we released, and it was breath taking to see the balloons fly high into the sky, and we watched them in motion, untii they were ou of our sight. Of course, there was not a dry eye amongst us. I am sure you have read all of them by now, but just in case, you missed one or two,here they are big guy....
your mom wrote: Mike, I am so sorry I was not alway's there for you. I love you very much. mom
Your dad wrote: I love you Mike and I will never forget you, never. Please forgive me for missing out on so much with you. I am truly very sorry. Your loving dad...
from grandma: Dearest Michael,fly with the angels big guy, they will love you just as we all did, but don't forget to entertain them with your poetry and stories! I miss you and love you so much... Big hugs to my special bud..your grandma
Dear Mike: The other day I saw this jack kerouac quote and I thought of you. "the only peple for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars.
While I can't promise I won"t ever say anything commonplace or that I will never yawn, I can promise the memory of you will burn in all of us for the rest of our lilves, especially me. Life in general needs more roman candles like you. Thank yoiu for exploding into m ine Michael. From you, the lessons of friendship, love, and grace were many and all will be treasured, carriied forward and never forgotten. Burn on dear friend, burn on. Love, alway's,
Laurel....
Hey buddy: grandma and I miss you every single day. Not a day goes by that we do not cry buckets of tears. You were a fine young man and I was alway's so proud of you. 27 years was not enough, but I will see you soon. Love, Grandpa
Mike: I miss you, and Ihope your having fun up there. I love you moee than doughnuts. Your cousin, Cory age 9
Michael: You loved everyone un-conditionally. Lindsey
I love you brother...Ed
From 21 to tekklen,, the years we shared were far to short, yet filled a life time. thank youi for your unwavering friendship. I know I will see you again. Until that day, take care and smile down on lus Mr. Mike..Kristin

Hey man, just looking back at some old Myspace blogs. Found this.

Me: "On an unrelated note, I just made macaroni and cheese for the first time in my 23 years of life. I had to borrow a pot, and a... strainy pot, whatever those are called, from our neighbors. Because we don't have pots in our apartment. Anyway, it was delicious. And it tops Ramen Instant Lunch as the most complex thing that I can cook, which I think is a great triumph."

You: "Anyway...I remember when you cooked macoroni. That was awesome! If airing a reality TV show in our apartment doesn't pan out, I say that we run a cooking show in our living room. And it will feature you, making macoroni. And I'll be in the background getting drunk and yelling at you. "Is that how you cook pansi! I want more cheese in that macoroni! Make it happen ya pansi!" It'll kind of be like that one show "Hell's Kitchen" but it will be much cooler. Because...well I don't know why, it just will be."

So what I'm saying is, you owe me a cooking show. I might have to do the cooking and the shouting at me by myself, which will just be awkward.

PS - I'm listening to Kanye now. He got me like half of the way from Denver to Spokane. It made me think of the road trip we were supposed to take sometime... Grad school with Kate Reed in Washington State right now. You should fuckin be here man, at least for a visit.

That's all I got. And now I send this out into the world and hope you can read it somehow.

MSG!

Heard Reel Big Fish today and thought of the concert you went to with Shirazi and me. Your grandmother called me again today, but I missed her call and it was too late to call back when I got home. I know how hard it is going to be for both of us to get together, but I also know how important it is for both of us. I just wish you were there with me, to introduce us. I know you will be, in your own fucked up way. Did you know that I work with two people who live in your building? Of course you do. And that a girl who works at the Starbucks next door is a ballerina who used to be super tight with Colleen? It's a small world, after all. It's a small, small world. I hope you get that song stuck in your head :P

oh honey i found this beautiful poem that i just had to write its from me and well you and your dad always wrote such beautiful poems im kinda borrowing this but it says a lot about how i feel about you well here goes
If someone asked me to define the perfect son, i would say....Search for a young man whose heart is as big as the grand canyon,search for a young man who thinks only of others,search for a young man who does a thousand good deeds each day while expecting nothing in return, search for a young man who suffers and never complains and when your search is over,
if you have found such a young man, then rejoice
for you have found my son

hi honey wanted to just let you know how much i miss you you know the old saying you dont know what you got untill its gone? well i live that every day i miss our walks thru the park and lunch at paneras i miss you pocket dialing me from where ever you were and hearing you and all your freinds laughing and having a good time most of all i miss your smile your handsome face and your ability to dream big. Went by elitches today and of course i would think of you no one to ride the rollar coasters with now and you know how afraid your brother is of them he toled me the other day that he thought he was almost as tall as you i wish you were here so we could tell i love you sweethart and i always will kisses and hugs me

last day of the month of july here comes a sad summer closing since the start of this dreadful year ive cried for a beautiful son id never thought of losing sombody please wake me feels as tho ive been dreaming these mistful eyes that weigh heavy witness streams of tears and suffuring this heart of mine thats torn and bleeding cries out for reliief each and every morning will this nightmare ever end i miss you so much mike please catch these simple words that i am sending

My Dearest Michael;
Well big guy, it has been almost 7 months now since you left us,and it seems like only yesterday.Boy do we miss you111 All of us are still devastated, still feel we are on our knees a lot of the time, bent and broken. I never knew what grieving was, until we lost you, and I didn't know, one could cry so much, day after day, after day. I had this idea, if I remodeled your old bedroom,, I would be able to move on better, Bad idea.I took all your basket ball posters off the walls, your high school class pictures, and boxed up all your books, writings, etc. even bought a new bedspread and drape, painted the walls, hung some new paintings, put new pictures up on the shelf over the bed, and tried like hell to make it into a guest bedroom. This lasted about an hour, decided i just was not ready to make that kind of a change yet, so out of the boxes came the books, writings, your poetry, your pictures, and now I am at peace. I am still trying to put the puzzel together as to the why of things, but don't know anymore now, than i did from day one. Gramps and I are still in 2 support groups, have read about 10 books now on suicide's, and finally quit seeing the hospice therapist we loved.I no longer blame anyone for the decision you and you alone made. I am no longer mad at you, your parents, myself, grandpa, your girl-friend, co-workers, your drinking buddies, and so on. I am and never was, mad at God, as he is a loving god, and I know it was him, who hurt as bad or more than the rest of us. I try not lto think about the past, what you threw away, or the things you will never be able to accomplish instead I remind myself how blessed I was to have you as long as I did. You taught me so much Michael, from being the kind and loving person you were, you had so many wonderful traits I admired. You were patient when I was not, you were forgiving, gentle, generous (to a fault sometimes) smart, funny,sensitive, creative, a gifted writer, driven to succeed, thoughtful, and affectionate. You taught me to love un-conditionally, to take a risk, to enjoy the moment, to appreaciate poetry, and to treat everyone the same, regardless of their religion, color, or sexual orientation..I know this will knock yoiur socks off, but grannie is getting a tatoo at 70 years old. You heard me, a tatoo. an angel over my heart with a "M" under the angel. This way, if I get dementia as I age, and get confused, i will alway's have the angel to remind me of my grandson. We started a scholarship fund in your name at UCD for a creative writing student, and already have almlost $3,000 in it. I knew you would want this for a struggling student with no money. I am hoping to meet a couple of your friends and take them to lunch, we will talk about you, probably cry some, but it gives me something to look forward to. I pray you have the peace now, and the tranquility you may have been looking for here on earth. Be Happy big guy, and know you will never be forgotten. Lots of Love, and big hugs, Grandma, and all your family.....

Oh Michaell, I miss you soo much! Me and Cory! Espesailly grandma and Grandpa, They are haveing suchh a hard timee, Its just really hard without you on this earth with uss, Really hard but our family and everyonee who loves you knows that you are with god(: In a better place, Where nothing will EVER hurt you,or do anything That would make you feel not welcomee, And did i tell you? I write all the time now! :D Its soo much fun! and im actually thinking about becomeing a writer when i get older! Whooohooo!(: Well I just wanted to tell you that...I love you, and you are and always will be in my heart(:

thinking about u buddy... i miss your face...

Miss you Mike. Connect with you. In memories when shadows chase away our dreams...

9 in the afternoon! Just thinkin' about you bro. Daily of course, but some days the weight of this world is much heavier than others. Miss having you around to pick me up when things are down. Come say somethin' to keep me up. Your twin,

Roy

michael, michael, motorcycle.

last time i wrote i was angry. i'm still angry, but it's only because it hurts so bad. nobody likes to feel that way. been having a lot of dreams about you lately. i feel like you are visiting me. it's weird.

happy 4th of july michael. hope you get to see some kick ass fireworks.

Dear Son: This is the first time in 27 years I will see a Fathersday and not have you; no card, letter,phone call or anything other than your memory. I see a beautiful sunset,the rain,the wind and think of nothing but you and still ask why. Nothing makes sense at all concerning your loss- which we feel so acutely. With Fathersday approaching, I wanted you to know that this particular day may very well be the second saddest I have ever known. The saddest was the day you left us and broke all our hearts....It seemes only a moment ago instead of 5 months. I know you would want me to remember the good rather than the sad times, but Son I miss you so much,and will make it thru this Fathersday and each day there after thinking of you...Love always Dad

Mike: We miss you so much! Grandma misses your smiles and all the telephone calls, just talking to you and all the hugs you gave her.I miss our long talks and the fun times we shared together.You had so much potential and you left it all behind. I am trying to keep your work alivet the technology is sometimes beyond me. I tried to send a message on My Space from your account and I dont think it worked. Grandma and I went to Capital Hights today for the first time. It was so sad but we had to see what you saw in your last moments on this earth. The manager said you talked to the maintenace man on your way up and you seemed at peace, I only wish that was true.Some one had placed a single rose in the garden where you fell, we dont know who did it but it shows how much you meant to so many people. This will be the first Fathers Day in many years that I will not get a card from you, and the kiss on the forehead that I always got with an "I love you Grampa". Not a day goes by that we dont cry,I love you and always will keep you in my heart.

Man...I would have thought by now it would be easier to deal with this ...with time ...BUT I still cant take it. I heard a song today that you never heard but the lyrics were like you were singing. Damn it Mike why did you have to go we had a lot more songs to sing. I can't stand to sing this solo...

Hey Mike,
I finally did it. I finally graduated. I was taking what may have been my last walk in the north classroom and I thought of you. I visualized you frolicing in the halls with your torn baggy pants and that big warming smile when you saw a familiar face. I found one of the articles you wrote on helium about your college experience. That article is my life story right now (http://www.helium.com/items/240633-testimonies-my-college-experience). As the days go by I realize how alike we really are. Maybe it's because I secretly looked up to you. It's crazy. I graduated on Saturday and I'm already thinking about what other degree I can get. I think it's because I'm scared too. Scared like you were of getting into the corporate world. I tell you it sucks. Work your ass for a boss who doesn't give a shit about you personally. They only care about the figures and stats. That's where you differed. You cared about everyone. Remember when I told you the world needs a Michael Gorniak. Well, we need you right now Mike.

Michael,
It has been 4 long months since you left us. The pain does not get any easier. Grandma and I have not been able to write you up until now, because we are so devastated. I read the postings almost every day and when your friends and loved oness write how how they miss you, it just reinforces to us the large hole you left in so many hearts.. You had promised your grandmother you would never harm yourself, and would call her if you even thought you would, and we are so sad, that you must have been so depressed that none of these promises counted. We try not to be angry with you, because you felt this was the only way out for you, but it left us with so many un-answered questions. Even, talking to several of your friends, who have tried to help us to understand all of this, we still don't have the answers we want or need to have. We miss you bud, more than you could possibably imagine. Our lives are chnaged forever. Grandma and I were guests of Craig Volz last Friday eve at the UCD Film Festival, and Craig presented the Michael Gorniak writers award to a student, and Craig asked your grandparents to stand up, and I wish you could have b een there,and seen how proud we were of you and your accomplishments. We have alway's been proud of you though, and loved you more than life itself. These last 27 years we have shared with you were great, but unfortunately, not enough.
Love, Grandpa

UGH MikGooliak,

I have to drive by your building on an almost daily basis. Which means I cry on an almost daily basis. You are lucky. You don't have to feel pain anymore. But you left an inordinate amount of pain to be shared between SO many fucking people...I'm still angry when I think about what you did. I'm not going to lie or sugarcoat it. I miss the fuck out of you. I want to hang out, I want to shoot the shit, I want to get drunk and hear your rhymes. But more than anything, I am pissed off at you. I am SO FUCKING MAD. We talked about this. And how we'd never do it, because we loved the people in our lives too much. You fucking broke that promise. And you broke my heart. Mine is the least of the hearts that were broken. I miss you, but I am so fucking pissed at you. You lied. You broke your grandparents' hearts, and you said you would never do that. You said they were everything to you. I know the overwhelming feeling of self destruction. We talked about it. You said you could never do it. And you lied. And not the kind of lie you can apologize for or take back. Michael, I think about you every goddamned day. I know for a fact there is nothing I could have done, so it's not in that way. Just in a...goddamn, i-miss-my- friend-and-i-know-how-bad-he-hurt kind of way. I will always love you and carry you in my heart every day.

hi, honey just wanted to say i love you and i some how managed to get thru mothers day with out you i miss you more than words can say and well i have to say every time i think of you i find myself in tears so please forgive me if i try not to feel the pain sometimes it threatens to overwelm me all i can say is im so very sorry i wasent there for you when you needed me most please forgive me i love you and always will

Hey Michael,

We knew each other a short time, but I still think of you everyday and the last time I saw you.

There are really no words to express.

You are one the most creative, intelligent, and caring people I have ever met. Josh and I are both glad that we had the time we did to know and hang out with you.

Your friend,
Tamara

Life is so precious, every experience, every leaf on every tree, every human emotion, everything. I feel the tragedy of every suicide is that our society doesn't make people feel the exquisite pleasure in just being able to have experience, let alone good ones; we are led to think that all that matters is this material world, however delicate and sacred it is. I feel the sadness is that we don't always learn from those who have left us, learn that we must cherish every moment as a gift from the people who have given us life, the planet that gives us life, and perhaps even greater providers than these. I feel that Mike is with a greater provider now and was profoundly influenced by this greatness. There is always purpose to the events of our world or they would not occur as they do; there would be no personal involvement, and even though Mike is not here in the body we knew him in, I feel his involvement still, how powerful and meaningful it is and was. I feel he would be satisfied, if he is not already, if we learned from his life's mission, to bring equality and peace to all people. And when, in the future, we encounter pain within ourselves or others, let us meet it and not run, let us acknowledge that our society has led us here and we must resolve to change and soothe the sources of our pain. I am blessed to have met Mike and to have been so powerfully reminded of how fragile and beautiful life is because of his passing from this world. His family and friends are deep within my heart because of his passing, and to his father especially, I wish solace and strength. I am a father also and to read his words brings sweet tears to my eyes, reminding me INTENSELY how precious and gifted we are to be able to realize these things and embrace them within ourselves and within others. THANK YOU.

'Beings by nature have always been Buddhas,
Yet not realizing this, they wander endlessly in samsara.
May unbearable compassion arise within us
For sentient beings whose suffering knows no bounds.'

Peace be with us!!

Dear son

I miss you so much, the sound of your laugh. I look at the pictures of you many times each day and wonder what you might be doing. Can you send me a sign or a signal of some kind that you are ok? Your grandparents came to visit me today and we spent about 4 hours talking about you and how much you are missed.There is a scholarship in your memory. I have a whole bunch of cards from people expressing their shock and sorrow at what happend.Why on your birthday son?I just cant get it. I thought we were more open with each other ,so it hurts greatly to know you held back what you were actually feeling. Maybe you didnt know how to express it. Maybe you tried and I was not able to see it. Im so confused over all this. I sit here and watch the snow fall on Easter and think of you. Just as I will tomarrow, and the next day after that, and so on untill we can hug again
Love always Dad

dear son
march had some incredible snow storms and i was feeling blue with all the clouds and snow. wondering why you were no longer on the earth to watch the seasons change. if you could have made it thru your twenties you would have looked back im sure as i often do now that what seems impossable at the time is not that bad in retrospect. how i wish you would have opened up and shared with your loved ones what was really troubling you i see now that you seldom laughed in our final conversations and that was so unlike you. there was a time not to long ago when we could talk and laugh plan for the future and make each other feel good no matter what the world was throwing at us. those days are gone forever and i am so disdraught. there is no turning back from that fateful day wich was previiously such a happy and joyous day for your family-your birthday(when you entered the world, jan14) could you look down upon everyone who was sick with worry desperatley trying to find out what was transpiring? did you see us hit our knees? i hope you werent able to feel our pain, cause if it was added to what you already felt then you were surely crying along with all of us left behind here and thats not how i want to visualize you up there in heaven. i want to see that smile and hear that laugh but to be honest it dosent come thru on the cloudy days of which there have been many as of late.nearly 3 months lateri keep praying for answers that elude me i suppose someday you will be able to personally lay it all out for me. then will you please wrap your arms around me and hug me again?i miss that more than anything LOVE ALWAYS DAD

Michael, Michael, Motorcycle,
Just thinking of you, so I decided to drop a line. I've been stressed out about life, specifically about money and dumb shit. Then I flashbacked to our days at C.L.A.S. when you would lecture (or rant) to me about the important things in life. Your words and knowledge, no matter how unconventional the process, is branded into my brain. It made me feel a lot better about my situation. You always knew how to ease the tension and make things light-hearted. I made a promise to spread your work and I'm gradually working on it. I think I still have a copy of Monkey Balls on my hard drive some where. Just don't know where to start. I know the opportunity will present itself. Miss ya bro.

When it seems all have remembered to forget. I will still have the need. When it seems acceptable to move on. I will still stare and wish you were there.

i miss you so very much i had a dream about you last night all i wanted to do was to give you a hug and tell you i love you you were smiling like you were really happy just wanted to say im so happy that ive kept every teddy bear you ever gave me over the years they are a wonderful reminder of what a thoughtful and loving son you were just kinda makes me a little sad that i will never get another one fron you.miss you honey you were always my sunshine

"how ever far away, I will always love you
how ever long I stay, I will always love you
what ever words I say, I will always love you
I will always love you"

words have failed me in trying to express how i feel...so i'm using music. you have changed me forever love. i will always keep you with me in my heart and memory. i belong to you.

love your best friend in the middle of a really big forest,
colleen mary soltys

see you soon

damn, dude. still think about you every f***ing day. i found myself checking your myspace today, even though i knew there would be nothing new. i don't know, habit? my stupid comment about whether or not you got my message was the last thing on your page. seems so lame. i wish our last meeting had been more productive for you. is it weird that i come here to talk to you? i barely remember how to pray...this seems more real to me. i miss you.

From Mikes Father:
My Dear Son Mike, I cant fathom the rest of my life without you. The most meaningful job one has in this world is that of Dad. The most beautiful title any person will ever know, Father, and I regret letting you down over the years- tho you tried to re-assure me to the contrary. Thats the person you were, caring and loving. I saw you hands in my hands,I heard my laugh in yours, your smile.......In side these walls I have my memories of the time we spent together.These visions sustain me now. Your spot in my heart can never be filled by another, nor will time ever fade your essence from me. You left beautiful memories that only a son can,and you my only child, will be sorely missed. I replay our last visit, our last conversation, and wonder why I didnt say all the things to you I wish I had,but now I hope you know. Our bond was and always will be special, the most enduring of my life.Please smile down upon all of us you left hurting. We can use some relief from this unrelenting pain. LOVE ALWAYS DAD.

I met Mike once, but he left a large impression. We saw P-Nuckle at Toad Tavern a couple of months ago, and shared a few beers while our friends were at the smoking patio. He told me about Original Te, and his dreams to make the world a better place through music. We also shared experiences about UCD. I gave Mike and Rus a ride home that night, and had the pleasure of hearing them free style as I drove down I25. I always thought I would have a chance to see Mike again, and even help out with Original Te, and am saddened he is gone. When my band plays the Toad in early March, memories of sitting with Mike at the first table, stage right, will be on my mind. Peace Brother.

Just in case that link didn't work for others, Fight With Food is @ http://fightwithfood.org

http://fightwithfood.org

Just a quick update, Ed Sanchez and I have made contact and are looking to umbrella Original Te with our FightWithFood org - we are doing an event in honor of Michael and to benefit hungry and homeless people in communities across the globe. If you want to volunteer and/or share your ideas, please contact us by email either using the contact form on this site or sending me a personal message @ flobot32@gmail.com. We are proud to be collaborating in Michael's honor and his connectedness has opened many doors we never even knew existed. As a matter of fact, I have been in contact with old friends, new friends, and random folks all over the place who are genuinely concerned about what happened and want to do what they can. Thank you ALL for your wondeful comments and dedication to a loyal and beautiful person!

RIP MSG

R.
32
"This is the year that the jokers are wild" - MSG 12/08

Mike you were the best friend anyone could ask for. You were probably one of the only people i could look in the eyes and truly see no judgement and infinite amounts of love. You inspired me from the day we became friends and your spirit still inspires me today. I will never know why you had to leave us, but thank you for bringing the beautiful light of your heart into this world. You will never leave me.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i12/djrussh/FireTeaser1.jpg

This event was originally an idea Mike came up with in our first meeting, I created the concept and design and we were going to run with it together. We will continue to spread Origninal Te's brand and message and do anything we can to support and help sustain the organization!

Rus

http://s68.photobucket.com/albums/i12/djrussh/Michael%20Gorniak/

The pics to left and a couple tribute pics I modified are available on the site above....

We also have a thread on FightWithTools.org for MSG...

http://www.fightwithtools.org/forum/topics/tragedy-on-fwt

Peace and Solidarity to all,
Rus Cordova

Goolie to the ooliak

Last night I dreamed that we were hanging out, having lunch. You were reading me new stuff you wrote, and we were laughing, laughing, laughing. I wish I could remember what you were reading to me, but I woke up smiling.

Miss you.

Mike and I also met through FightWithTools.org. Please visit Michael’s page if you have not:

http://www.fightwithtools.org/profile/OriginalTE

My first impression of Mike was larger than life. It almost seemed omnipotent that someone had so much passion and drive. When he first talked about original TE he had so much energy & compassion that it always spilled over on to the vibe of the entire room. I sorely wish that I had gotten to know Michael better. His memory will live on through FightWithFood.ORG. We will include his org logo / URL on all of our show fliers. Whomever is now controlling the org please contact myself or Rus Cordova.

Thank you Darren (720) 206-8821

Mike,

The little time we shared was a powerful time and I was truly moved by your amazing spirit. I mourn your loss and vow to help keep your dream alive and to never let your memory die. You were a great person and one of the most passionate artists I have ever met. God, Rest your soul brother!!!

Rus Cordova
303-328-5511
(for anyone that would like to contact me)

Mike and I met through FightWithTools.org where we were attempting to help build his dream and I have some of the last recordings he did with me via cell phone as an emcee (rapper/poet)

Michael was larger than life. He was a warm, loving, and generous person, a passionate writer, and humanitarian. Most of all he was a great friend, not only to me but to everyone around him. He was so intuitive; doing anything he could to make you feel special, to feel loved. He was a lyrical gangster, composing stories, rhymes…that would shake you to your core, slap you across the face and reassure you that you were alive. You could feel his passion when he talked about things. He had an exceptional way of quenching the truth out of things; he was raw, uncensored, full of life and love. He wasn’t afraid to dream and challenge his ability to change the word. And yet he was more successful than he knew. Sometimes I wondered if I could ever love or care about anything half as much as Michael did. If I learned anything from MSG it is to be real. I wish things weren’t the way they are. We can all agree that he left this world too soon. I will miss him for the rest of my life. I love you Gooooolie Gooliak, I will always be your biggest fan. RIP brother.

Mike, I wish that I had gotten to know you earlier on in life. Having gone to school with you since middle school, it was easy to see what a vibrant and magnetic person you were. It was only within the past couple of years that we had really gotten acquainted. The time that we did spend together was never dull and always valuable. You were not a selfish person as you had portrayed during the times that we hung out. I recall a day when I invited you over to shoot some hoops with my friends and I at the house I was living at on Titan Road. My friends had no idea that you were a helluva basketball player but I was aware of your talent. I was expecting you to come over and wipe our asses all over the court. To my surprise, you were a team player. It was then that I knew I had misjudged you and probably had for years. Remember after everyone had left, I asked for a one on one game and told you not to be easy on me? Yeah, well, that was a bad idea. And to think that I considered myself to be a pretty athletic individual. HA! I don’t think that I scored more than one basket the whole match. And after I was completely wiped out, you wanted to play more. Another passion that I tried to share with you was free-styling. I am not very quick with words and I ain’t no gangsta but I enjoy the rhymes. It was quite apparent that you had the talent of a writer within yourself when we used to free-style. Your rhymes had deep meaning most of the time and it seemed as though they were very well thought out, but you would tell me that you had just made it up. As most others may agree, you were always willing to have deep, intellectual talks about life, philosophy, and anything else that generated brainpower. After each time I had one of these long discussions with you I left being enlightened and I understood the world just a little bit more. Thank you Mike. Your inquisitive thoughts placed in my mind the vision of a spiderweb with each distinct thought being able to be traced back to the origin of discussion. May you rest soundly on earth and be weaving webs within heaven.

Michael and I didn't know eachother very well but I always thought of him as a friend. We went to Jr. High and High School together but it wasn't until later in life that I would even know a bit of who he really was. When I did know and interact with him he never looked at me as "that girl that he went to high school with" but rather just another human being being!!! He was true and real every minute and that was just Michael! It was what made him HIM! He saw joy in everything and if it somehow it wasn't there he would make it happen! Everyone who ever talked with him knew he was genuine and caring and that there was something special about him!! I hope that he has found peace and that his family will find it as well. My heart goes out to them and girlfriend - stay strong! If we all pull together we can help keep Michael's dream alive!

My name is Morgan Helm, My cousins are Ashlee, and Cory hubler...they were cousins of Mike Gorniak. I didnt know him that well...but from the looks of it, and the sound of it he was something special...i keep thinking in my mind over and over again what to say, and how to say it. To make sure its perfect. But i realize that nothings perfect right? I wasnt able to go to the funeral, im not really able to handle those things. But my mom Michelle Helm told me it was a great funeral. To remeber someone amazing, who touched every single persons life. His grandparets, Barb and Bob who i keep in my prayers everyday are amazing and wonderful people! I love them will all of my heart! They are very kind. I am hopeing they can make it through this. I Hope its ok that i right a message here, I want to let all of my family know that i love them and care for them, and i want to get my thoughts out to Michael.

Im told that he was a creative and inventive writer...So am i. I write poems about challenging issues that we are faced with in our everyday life. Micheal was an inspierer...he would meet someone new, and different all the time, and would give them every piece of his mind, and of course he couldnt leave them without making them smile. He was a great person who had a family that would do anything for him, friends that were always at his side, his girlfriend, who i didnt know, infact i didnt know any of his friends, but i know she loved him...who couldnt? What im trying is to Barb and Bob mostly. Life is challenging, and i know i havent lived it to the fullest, and i know im not as experienced as two are, but i know when to offer a hug, a friend, i know when to give my heart, and my mind to anyone who needs it. You are one of the many people in my life who i admire. The way you lead in your life, the way you think, your plans, your generosity! What im saying is you have big hearts! And you use them like there is no tomorrow! Everyday you live life to the fullest, and you dont stop! Barb, your an amazing grandmother, you have always been so loving and compassionate to me whenver me and ashlee were just hanging out! When you were having a rough day and you came over to amy's you were always complimenting, hugging, kissing, being amazing! You remind me of my grandmother! She is my best friend, and the one i will always love, as i love you. Whenever i see you i cant help but get excited and smile....i guess you could say i get extremley gittery! Your an amazing woman, and dont stop. Bob! your the leader of the pack. You are a giving man who has nothing but a heart of gold. I feel the same for you as i feel for barb. We are extremley lucky to have you in our family. I know that some of this isnt coming out the way i want it to come out. But i really hope its working. I have a verse for you that im hoping can help.
Pslam 88:9- My eyes are dim with grief. I call to you Lord, everyday. I spread out my hands to you!
Everyday God is with you! he is watching you, and is loving you more and more. He has watched you grow, and is proud of his creation! He is the one who gives us life and gives us death. The lord works in mysterious ways, and they say everything happens for a reason, but God is not the reason for death! I know you would never point a finger. In life their is rejoicing and then sorrow. Have you ever seen the lion king? My favorite part in the movie is when they say, "tears of pain, tears of joy, tears that nothing can destroy." thats probably my favorite! Your gonna get past this :) and your going to live it to the fullest. Michael will be missed so much!! I didnt know him so well but im missing him like crazy. When i see you again, anything you wanna talk about im always here, im here for everything. Im praying for your so much!! When i went to summer camp this year i was really depressd about things, pointless things, and i couldnt even talk to my parents about it, not even my grandparents....but then a band named Rough Draft came to the camp THAT year, and played song Not far away. Its an amazing song, and it makes me smile everytime i hear it! Some lyrics from it are " and i believe theres a light somewhere near, somewhere, somewhere, and i believe out of life someday soon, someday, someway, and i know im not far away." There CD is very amazing!! Most of the songs are extremly deep! I would be so happy to send it you!!!, i will go ask my mom your address right away :), another song is called alone, and its by them also it helped me with my problem, i hope the lyrics can get to you to! Its helped many others who have experienced this out. It got to me! and i re-dedicated my life to christ that Thursday Night. July 10, 2008 at 6:46 PM....i will never forgett it! more songs can help to!! A song called Right here (departed) by Brandy, i know she is usually the showy kind of person but this song talks about her being there always...i compare to Jesus, God. Being there with you always!
Him as your strength and your shelter! some lyrics "when you feel your hearts gaurded, and you feel the break started, when the clouds have all departed, youll be right here with me!" "i will be there right beside you, every step you take, i will be your strength your shelter, shield you from the rain." "and when you feel alone, ima be your home, when others come and go, you know i got you!" Another song is Move along "all you gotta keep is strong, move along, move along like i know you do!" Songs usually help me, but so does the bible, best place for advice is Pslams! I love you with all of my hearts!! You fill my life with Joy :) We will miss you terribly Michael, may you be our angel!

Im blessed to have met you Mike. We were never very close, but when we did see eachother, I felt like we've known eachother for years. Your genuine kindness and sincerity was something thats very rare these days. You always had a smile on ur face and a few good stories or jokes to put a smile on mine. Theres no doubt you've touched alot of people in some way. You were a good person and I couldn't imagine how much harder it would have been to get through a day of school without stoppin by the computer lab for a good story or two. Miss you man. RIP