I first met Mary and Jaime during the lockdown in early 2020 doing service together. Something about Jaime’s smile and energy instantly won my heart- when he was around, I felt safe to be myself. He had this unconditional love and acceptance towards people. Like anything I did, would be the best thing ever! He was like that…my older brother and cheerleader. 

He would patiently listen to me, selfless and attentive… I got the feeling that he was only there for others. He would show an interest in the Korean songs I said were my favourite at the time and then blush and giggle when he explained that his favourite song at the time was from the Eurovision final! Such innocence and beauty. 

Generous at his heart, he never kept a compliment or word of appreciation to himself. He always found something to celebrate in another person, matter of fact he saw the positive in every situation - his warm smile never faltering. When I looked at him, I wondered, his smile came from a place of deep wisdom. He later told me that it was service and Gurudev’s knowledge that resonated most with him. To me, he was almost saintly. 

I remember he would always say little things to make me feel good about myself, when I unsure. One day, during an online meditation I was leading, he couldn’t hold back the appreciation and just turned on his camera and started throwing thumbs up and BIG encouraging smiles at me! Maybe he knew I was nervous. I remember I was so surprised I came so close to laughing out loud!! That memory still comes up now. Cheerleader Jaime.💚

When I tied him a ‘rakhi’ on his wrist (a symbol of a brother/sister bond) he graciously accepted it and wore it for months afterwards. Showing it off to me with excitement and big smiles wherever we saw each other… that memory makes me smile a lot.

He ended up taking an important role in my life, inspiring me to take the next steps and guiding me where I needed. I am sure he had a million things to do, but he was always available. His words quelled any worries I had about doing my TTC. When he heard about my first job offer, I think he was more thrilled than I was! Same with when he was the first to notice out of our friends, that I was in a relationship.

To me, Jaime was the embodiment of love. An example of how life can be lived in service and I still draw on him for inspiration. I will miss his gleaming eyes and warm smile and especially his kind voice, I can still hear it. He brought a little bit more softness and love to this world. Thank you, dear Jaime for sharing your life with us.