You were one of a kind. You were the type of person who was known by everyone, simply because your presence was so vibrant and full of life that it was impossible not to notice. You were a breath of fresh air and a ray of sunshine wherever you went. You represented all of the good in the world that one could hope to see and experience in others. You were kind, hilarious, down to earth, and so incredibly humble. Your eyes were yet another beautiful thing about you. I have always lived vicariously through you and your social media posts. Your wonderful photographs of the the beauty in the world around you, whether it was Hawaiian land or seascapes, your dog, your dad, or just your friends. Nothing but love and goodness radiated from you, always.

I was intimidated by you, at first. Then one day, we interacted and I realized how normal and, well, awkward you actually were. Yet, only you could have turned such awkwardness into something so great. Your art is some of my absolute favorite. I could never get enough. I always wanted to see more of your perspective and vision, and the way you could bring out so much life and color from your subjects, real or imaginary. I always knew you would have gotten famous as an artist or model. Your character and charm were enough to grant you that, and your talent was exceptional.

I will never forget our most recent beach trip. We were all laying out in the sun, talking and having a good time. Suddenly, you're yelling at me. "GUNTHER! Gunther!" You were always the only person who could get away with calling me that, and the little name will always remind me of you). "Gunther! What is that?"

"What is what?"

"is that a third nipple?"

"What?"

"YOU HAVE THREE NIPPLES GUNTHER"

Apparently, I do.

You had unfettering honesty, but could never say a bad thing about anyone. In fact, you so freely spoke your mind but held everyone in such high regard that you brought out the best in each and every one around you.

Our time on this earth is all we know we have for certain, but we never know how long that time is. Any day, our lives can be turned upside down. We spend so much time worrying about our future, so much so that it robs us of the present and the beauty around us. Let's promise to be better and to work harder. Try to give more people a chance, tell more jokes, swim in the ocean, look at the stars, and say hi to strangers.

Thank you for making this world a better place by being in it. Thank you for all of the laughs, Natty. Peace be unto you.

So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart.

Trouble no one about their religion; respect others in their view, and

demand that they respect yours. Love your life, perfect your life,

beautify all things in your life. Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people. Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.

Always give a word or a sign of salute when meeting or passing a

friend, even a stranger, when in a lonely place. Show respect to all

people and grovel to none.

When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy

of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only

in yourself. Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones

to fools and robs the spirit of its vision.

When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are

filled with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep

and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way.

Sing your death song and die like a hero going home.

-Chief Tecumseh