During Lent of 2026 I began reimagining my writing spaces. What is my “why” and who am I writing for? What do I really want to say as opposed to what I think I am supposed to say?
I’ve been writing like crazy for my college classes and the freedom I have felt in that safe, closed space has showed me just how much I have held back all these years. After much soul-searching, I realized it is time to write with courage. To take risks and leave a mark that resonates far beyond me. I’m not getting any younger, and I want what I write to leave a lasting mark. To reflect me–my personality, tastes, humor, faith, and quirks…of which there are quite a few. In a nutshell: I want to leave proof that I was here.
This is how “Etched in the Surface” was born. The title is taken from the lyrics of a song called “Drag Path” by the band Twenty One Pilots. It speaks of the battle we face every day to stay faithful to God, turn our back on evil, and push back the encroaching darkness. We want to stand with the good guys, right? Sometimes we succeed, but very often we fail. The “Drag Path” is proof that we genuinely want to overcome those dark impulses, but we are struggling. But even as we are dragged away, we dig in our heels to leave a trail or, as the song says, “evidence I went there on purpose.” And the beautiful thing is, in our brokenness and rebellion, HE FINDS US.
Listen to the song when you get a minute. Let me know what you think.
I also intend to have a lot of fun. Let’s talk about movies, music, and books. Let’s have conversations about what is going on around us, in our communities, our nation, and the world. Let’s explore our backyards, marveling at God’s creation and reminding one another that “All shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of things shall be well.” (Julian of Norwich)
What’s ahead…
I redesigned this space to become a proper newsletter with sections that will appear with each issue. Along with the main topic, you will see the following…
“Hosewater Chronicles” is this Gen X-er’s spot to relive the glory days of the ‘80’s. It might be a photo. It might be an Instagram link. It might be a throwback to an old song or movie. It WILL be fun and full of big hair:)
“Wonder” is a space for gratitude. There are countless gifts and modern parables in this good world God has made. We need to name them.
“Dear Beloved” is where I will continue to share the heartbeat of my faith and spiritual practices: God is Love and He loves us unconditionally. Identity is everything, and God uses all kinds of methods to remind us! Whether through music, Scripture, a conversation, lyrics to a song, or a quote from a movie that illuminates our hearts, in a world riddled with lies, we must train our eyes and hearts to recognize the truth of who we are wherever it may be.
Finally, “Favorite Things” (also self-explanatory) will be a crap shoot. You never know what I’ll write about 🙂
I’m excited about what is ahead!
First up: I’m going to see the Micheal movie on opening night! I’ll be taking notes (and pictures!) to share with EVERYONE. I may or may not have purchased a black sequined blazer.
Get ready. Sixth grade Jeanine is bursting. She just might be seen dancing in the aisles on Friday!
Thanks so much for reading! As always, the best way to support my work is to like, comment, and share it. I hope you have a wonderful week!
~Jeanine
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