Today is the day we remember Jacob, after 15 years of him being gone. The food drive you hold in honor of him each year, “Jacob’s Cupboard Moxie Food Drive” is what you call it. Music is played by friends, because Jacob loved music. To bring together people to remember him, but to also help the community, to meet a need.

I still remember that horrible day when I was heading to Yukon, and I was trying to get ahold of Kyler, but I couldn’t, so I called James. When James answered, he strained the words, “Amanda, last night Jacob overdosed and he’s gone. We’re at Kyler’s”. Instantly I started sobbing, so uncontrollably, I had to pull off on an exit I didn’t recognize to gather myself as well as I could. This is before GPS on my phone, so I found the nearest gas station, ran inside, to ask the clerk, gasping through tears, how to get to Yukon. I made it to your house Shelli, and there we all grieved together, sat in it, the weight of this terribly tragic thing.

I know it has been many many years since I’ve spent time in your home, with your family. But I wanted to write to let you know how significant that time with your family was. I was a wandering kid and I found solace in your home; you provided me a place to feel safe in the midst of so much turmoil in my life. I am sure you didn’t know the impact you and your family had on me. The kindness and love you extended and the faith you displayed in such tragic circumstances. Thank you for being such a person to look up to.

Here I find myself, 33 years old, my life in the midst of uncertainty, and my faith has been rocked… I follow you on Facebook and it reminds me as I am facing all these things, how you’ve held such a posture of faith throughout these years. You inspire me. I pray that I can rebuild my faith and be strong, like you. Thank you.

In honor of Jacob, may you feel loved and at peace today in only a way Our Creator can give. I love you friend.

Love, Amanda