Dear Chester,
I heard about your death today, and I can honestly say that the world is shaken. I think I understand, though. You were hurting inside, and have been for a very long time. You've written about that pain in so many of Linkin Park's iconic songs, songs that I personally related to growing up.
The loss of your light is devastating to the world, not just the world of rock, but the entire world. Your sobriety was an inspiration to addicts, your survival a light for abuse victims, and your lyrics an outlet for many people who had no other way to express themselves. I just wish that as much as you've done for others that we could have done something for you.
I know that the day you died was also Chris Cornell's birthday, and maybe that's why that was the day that you chose to end your own life, but only you truly know the answer to that.
I guess I'm just writing this to thank you, not just on behalf of myself, but on behalf of the world. Thank you for the years you gave us with Linkin Park. Thank you for giving a twelve-year-old from a small town the words to express an internal chaos that even they couldn't comprehend. Thank you for giving adults a beautiful lyricism that not only calms them but that they can share with children in the hopes that your words save just one more broken soul. Thank you for how outspoken you've been in regard to bullying, abuse, and drug use. Thank you for showing people that it is possible to live your dreams, and even become a part of your favorite childhood band. Thank you for being such an amazing person during your life.
As a long-time fan of Linkin Park, I know it will never be the same without you. The band has been dealt a great loss, the rock community has been dealt a great loss, the world has been dealt a great loss.
As the world pulls out their old copies of Hybrid Theory, Meteora, Minutes to Midnight, A Thousand Suns, Living Things, The Hunting Party, and even copies of One More Light, and as I listen to Bleed It Out, I can say beyond a shadow of a doubt that you will be greatly and deeply missed. Your words weigh heavy on our souls tonight.
I truly hope you've found peace.
Signed,
A fan
