Great tribute from Nicole

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For you our beloved friend and brother, Chris.

   "Never give up." These were words that 22 year old Chris "Burnsie" Burns constantly said throughout his life to encourage those around him. Chris never gave up his struggle but on July 14th 2011, God called Chris home.
          Chris became a good friend of Nicole and myself this summer, a brother like figure even. Although I knew Chris at the tail end of his life and for only a few short weeks, it only took that brief time to figure out what a special person he was. Chris made friends easily. With his carefree spirit, witty jokes, and a goofy smile, he could win you over in less than ten minutes. Believe me, he became my friend in about five. Just sitting and talking with him about cars, Family Guy, or even about life, you could tell what a resilient and caring person he truly was. He could turn the darkest and most difficult situation into a comedy. Nothing could bring his mood down. He was a good listener and always checked in on you, no matter where he was or what his circumstances were. He became very close to my friend Nicole. They shared many deep conversations and had each other's back. Chris treated her like a sister. To me, Chris was like family. Behind his kind and lovable soul, Chris had demons to tackle.
          He struggled with addictions throughout his young life and he sought help. Through his addictions, he constantly helped others around him, otherwise people which society conveniently forgets about and shoves away into a dark corner. In my eyes, I see Chris as the guiding light for those who followed the same path he did. His life and yes, even his death has and will change people's lives.
         On July 22nd, a memorial was held in honor of Chris. Many friends, and family members attended to share their pain in his loss, as well as their joy in memories and the opportunity to know Chris. And what an opportunity it was. Everyone had nothing but good things to say about this young man and you could tell how much he was and always will be loved.
           Chris, we will miss jamming to Waka Flocka with you and laughing at your jokes. You will always be in our hearts and we know you are looking down at us with that smile from heaven. You are our brother, and a close friend.

          If you get anything out of this story, get this. Don't take the ones you love for granted because one day you are here, and gone the next. Life is too precious to be wasted. Most importantly, never judge a person for where they have been because we all have our problems. It is how we deal with them that counts. Genuine souls are hard to come by, but Chris sure was one of them. Please keep your thoughts and prayers with him and remember, love your friends and family but also those around you who need the most care. And in the words of Chris Burns, "Be good."