I’m here to share my story and experiences growing in my faith, healing from mental health issues, and learning to thrive with chronic pain and illness. I’ve come a long way from being an overworked, anxious, depressed pre-med major to becoming a joyful and hopeful theology student. Of course I’m still learning to deal with hormonal ups and downs, figuring out how to calm my anxiety when it flares, and exploring how to take care of my body better. But I know that none of that defines who I am. I am a child of God.
I am married to Aaron – my best friend, the most incredible man, and the person who makes me laugh more than anyone else. I’m mom to Ezra, my little miracle baby.
We live in St. Louis with our pet hedgehog, Ruby, and our rescue pup, Jax. I love to drink coffee, read, talk about theology, spend time in nature, make music, and have sweet conversations with friends.
I am working on a masters in spiritual care and certification as a deaconess with the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.
WHY I’M WRITING
I want to share some of the lessons I’ve learned as I’ve grown in my faith while dealing with:
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
- Premenstrual Dystrophic Disorder (PMDD)
- Chronic pain (from scoliosis)
- Anxiety
- Social anxiety
- Perfectionism
There’s a lot out there telling you that living and loving your life means accepting yourself, finding your truth, developing your inner calm, and manifesting your best self. If you’re a Christian woman, you might think these messages sound really appealing for helping your mental health. But where is God in this picture?
In the last few years, I have experienced such a change in the way that I view myself, my relationship with God, and the world. The answer wasn’t meditation, journaling, yoga, or hot-girl walks (although those can all be useful in their own way in moderation). The thing that has changed my mindset and is helping me on my journey to a healthier mind is coming to understand the simple fact that I am God’s daughter. I was baptized in his name, given faith in the Holy Spirit, and nothing can take that away.
As your sister in Christ, I hope that I can support you wherever you are in your journey today. Feel free to follow me on social media or contact me so we can connect!