Dear Chebeague Friends,

How can I begin to thank you? You meant so much to Jim. Honestly his heart was captured by the island and all of you who welcomed us to the island. When we left the island, he was not happy with the decision and I know that you held his heart until the day he died. His death has left a gaping hole in my life and I know that some of you will feel that loss as well. Please know that Jim loved you and the island.

When I was planning the service, I knew that Jim would want the choir to sing and I knew that I could ask for help with food and know that you would respond with love and grace. Those of you who sang – it was beautiful! Thank you so much! If you helped with food, I am eternally grateful. I never imagined that there would be that number of people at Jim’s service and was humbled to realize just how much food was served. It felt like the fish and loaves – there didn’t seem to be an end to the bounty that was available.

This past week I received a check from the island for 900.00+ toward the Guatemala mission. My heart overflows with so many emotions. The month before Jim died, we talked about setting up a scholarship fund for folks who want to serve on a team but need some financial assistance. We have received more than $10,000.00 for the Guatemala mission and I am considering setting up a scholarship fund with that money and finding a way to remember Jim’s love for the people of Guatemala with an annual fundraiser. You have helped to jump start that endeavor and I thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Thank you for loving Jim. He was an amazing man and I was fortunate to have him at my side for the past 39 +years. He made me a softer, more gentle person. Jim is now living in my heart and in the hearts of those whose life he has touched. Thank you for making both of our lives richer.

Love,

Linda (Brewster)