One positive thing about being overdue?? I can still make the trip today to pay tribute to an old friend.
When we as Jake's friends asked what we could do for his family, his parents simply told us to help Jake be remembered. So remember we did. Along with some other friends I gathered memories and pictures of Jake and compiled a book for his family. His brother set up a website, for others to share their memories. And I hope his family knows that still, even 4 years later, I do remember.
The first year it was hard to remember. I missed him and the memories brought sadness. My first visit to his grave, I had a good cry. But time heals, and now anytime I think of Jake, I can't help but be happy. Yes I still miss him, but I am confident he was needed much more somewhere else. I imagine he is the same fun and crazy Jakey, blessing just as many lives elsewhere as he did here. I am grateful for the tender mercy that despite our busy school schedules, it somehow happened that Jakey and I were able to spend a lot of time together the week before his death. That he just happened to drop in and visit me at work the evening before.
Jakey was crazy and adventurous. He was spiritually sound. He was a people lover and people loved him. More than anything else, Jakey contagiously loved life. And I love September 18th for reminding me to love mine a bit more, just as Jakey did.
The first year it was hard to remember. I missed him and the memories brought sadness. My first visit to his grave, I had a good cry. But time heals, and now anytime I think of Jake, I can't help but be happy. Yes I still miss him, but I am confident he was needed much more somewhere else. I imagine he is the same fun and crazy Jakey, blessing just as many lives elsewhere as he did here. I am grateful for the tender mercy that despite our busy school schedules, it somehow happened that Jakey and I were able to spend a lot of time together the week before his death. That he just happened to drop in and visit me at work the evening before.
Jakey was crazy and adventurous. He was spiritually sound. He was a people lover and people loved him. More than anything else, Jakey contagiously loved life. And I love September 18th for reminding me to love mine a bit more, just as Jakey did.
5 comments:
I miss Jake so much. I think about him often, and you're right, I can't help but be happy, especially when I remember his goofy laugh. His laugh always made me crack up. Thanks for the post; it's so good to see his beautiful face again.
It's good that you keep Jake in your memories and heart. He was a good friend to all of us. Thanks for this!
What a great tribute to Jake!!! He was an amazing guy and I'm glad that I got to know him and that he was a part of my life! I miss him tons too and I randomly think about. I know he's watching over all of us now... and having a blast while he's up there. Love n miss you Jakey!
This is such a sweet tribute, Brooke. Thank you for sharing. I will always remember Jake for being genuinely nice and just always HAPPY.
Hey, Brooke. It's Autumn. I found your blog through Nia. Thanks for that post. I can't believe its been so long. I was on the same flight as the Whetten's this past summer and Sister Whetten and I had a really nice talk about Jake. Thanks again!
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