Jacob & Luke R.

Jacob Carter's life was extraordinary. A lot of my earliest memories are of Jacob and the Carter Family. Saturday morning chocolate chip pancakes. The art drawer in the kitchen where we each had our own folder full of our creations. Playing mermaids/merman in the pool. Taking Anna Leigh to the emergency room for her extreme poison ivy that I am pretty sure she got from the barn. Playing jobs community center, scouring Hastings for the only copy of Clifford and being jealous of Jacob playing the cello; I could go on and on about the formative memories I have playing with Jacob, Isaac & Anna. As a child, I felt at home in the Carter home, and as an adult, I feel at home with the Carters. 

Jacob's radical love for people changed so many lives. It certainly changed mine. For a few years, I admired from afar for the boldness and courage he displayed in coming out and living as his true self. I beamed with pride when he met Daniel and I watched their love blossom. Because we grew up the same way, I knew the challenge that was for him, but I was so happy and proud he was able to do that. It took me a few more years, but I followed in his footsteps. When I faced hurt and challenges from people back home after coming out, Jacob was one of the first people I reached out to. I knew, of all people, that he understood. This last year he supplied me with so much encouragement, resources and love. I know I would not be where I am without him. The pain and shock of losing such a wonderful man will never go away. In a lot of ways, Jacob and the Carter family have shown me what a true family looks like. Jacob radiated love and kindness and acceptance. I hope to be half the man that Jacob Carter was.