an
unfiltered

journal

BY JESS BROWN

I saw this quote online the other day “Art takes time – Monet grew his gardens before he painted them”. If you’re in church life I’m sure you’ve heard this sentiment in a simpler way “social media is a highlight reel” or “show your best and hide the rest” and sure that is part of […]

Beginning, Creativity

Grow Your Gardens

I’m only realizing in the second half of my life that I’ve always loved myself. That feels kind of icky to read and admit but stay with me for a while. Growing up and for much of my teenage years I thought I had poor self esteem and self image. This manifested a lot of […]

Beginning, Mental Health

Love your shadows

I’m kind feel stuck inside an in-between season where I try to be grateful for where I have been able to get to thus far – while still keeping my eye on things that remain difficult in my life that I hope resolve. I’m grateful for the steps I’ve taken to remain secure in my […]

Beginning, Faith, Jesus

The Courage To Bloom

Most people that meet me tell me straight up that I’m a laid back – easy to get along with person – so it’s interesting to also do some self-reflection and acknowledge that I also struggle with peace. Isn’t it funny how people can see you as one thing and be surprised that that’s not […]

Beginning, Bible, Faith, Mental Health

Learning To Master Peace

Trigger warning – SA * * * * * So much of recovering from sexual assault is feeling uncomfortable in your own skin. Your body, your agency, your identity becomes sullied by another person. You don’t feel like you fully belong to yourself anymore. For the first few years I felt like my skin was […]

Beginning, Mental Health

But it will make you free