Pastor. Communicator. Tennessean. 8-Miler.
What I feel like I’m supposed to say: First, it feels like I’m supposed to talk in the third person, but let’s skip that. I was born and raised north of Nashville, TN, and now live in Austin, TX with my husband of 20 years and our two teenage sons. Originally planning on a different path, I studied music at Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA. Later, I received my Master of Theological Studies through Vanderbilt University Divinity School in Nashville. As an ordained pastor, the past two decades have been spent counseling, teaching, studying and exploring how God has uniquely designed each of us. Sharing across the country and writing through blogs and articles, I want to encourage us to see God at work through all seasons and facets of life.
What I want to say: I am passionate about questions, journeys, personality and exploring God’s movement and work in the world with others. I believe we are each “fearfully and wonderfully made,” but we generally do not know that “full well” as the Psalmist says. We stop short of the abundant life God desires for us and for a whole host of reasons. My fears, doubts, insecurities and past are generally on full display as I think there is extreme value in realizing we rarely sit alone. (Also, think final rap battle in 8-Mile.) I have yelled at my kids, mistreated my body, pushed away friends and neglected my husband. But I have also broken generational patterns, overcome fears and learned to believe in myself at least a little bit more, sharing all those ups and downs openly. Through conversation, vulnerability and honest questions, we can each take steps toward a full and vibrant life. Often, we are the main obstacle in our own way. My role is to help us let go, and allow God to fully love us as we are designed to be loved.
