About me

I grew up and got an undergrad degree in the bottom left corner of Canada before moving across the country for military service. Serious but unexplained health issues left me unable to keep serving. I dug into counselling, alternative healthcare, and a diploma in natural nutrition to understand the stressors that fueled the crisis, which sparked deeper theological questions that pulled me to seminary. There, I discovered it and my denomination and church’s stance on gender hierarchy: my health plummeted. The inordinate energy drain of wrestling against authoritative voices that value myself as a women less was augmented by long COVID and brought me physically and psychologically lower than I ever imagined was survivable. A return of safety to start healing (again) began with a change in geographic locations, school and denominations. I’ve journaled all along the way and seen how writing was a healing creative space. But also essential to healing is community, participating not only as a recipient but as a contributor. Writing here offers a way to contribute what I’ve learned along the way. Thanks for your presence.

—Jazmine

(photo: my dog lending her presence)