Healing After Trauma: Jessica Morris on Faith, Recovery, and Transformation

Finding Strength in Recovery and Spiritual Rebirth

In this episode of Conversations with Rich Bennett, we sit down with Jessica Morris, author of Higher Powered: One Woman’s Journey of Personal Eschatology. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and transformation—overcoming childhood trauma, battling addiction, and ultimately finding healing through spirituality.

Jessica’s journey is a testament to the power of faith in recovery. In this article, we explore three key takeaways from our conversation: the concept of personal eschatology, the role of questioning faith, and the power of spiritual mentors. Whether you’ve faced personal struggles or simply want to strengthen your spiritual journey, Jessica’s insights are deeply relevant.

Personal Eschatology: A Journey of Individual Spiritual Awakening

Jessica introduces the concept of personal eschatology, an idea she developed through her studies in seminary. Traditionally, eschatology refers to the “end times” in theology, but Jessica sees it as a deeply personal process—a spiritual rebirth where we die to our old selves and embrace transformation.

She explains that after years of struggling with addiction, she had a profound realization: “What if Jesus wasn’t just coming back for all of humanity at once, but instead, for each of us individually, in our lowest moments?”

Jessica’s perspective challenges us to see transformation as something deeply personal. Recovery, faith, and healing don’t happen in an instant—they are ongoing, personal journeys where we continually shed our past selves and grow closer to our true purpose.

The Power of Asking ‘Why?’ in Faith and Healing

Growing up in a strict religious home, Jessica was told never to question God. That mindset left her feeling lost and disconnected. “I believed that if I asked ‘why,’ I’d be punished,” she recalls. But when she entered recovery, her mentor encouraged her to write a letter to God—a raw, emotional outpouring of all the questions she had been too afraid to ask.

Through this process, she learned that questioning is a vital part of faith. True spiritual growth comes not from blind acceptance, but from seeking deeper understanding. Many people struggling with addiction or trauma feel disconnected from faith because they believe they aren’t allowed to doubt or question. Jessica’s story proves otherwise—faith can withstand hard questions, and in fact, those questions can lead to greater spiritual breakthroughs.

The Role of Spiritual Mentors in Personal Transformation

One of the most powerful figures in Jessica’s journey was Paul E. Clarke, a chaplain who became a guiding light in her recovery. Unlike other religious figures she had encountered, Paul met her with grace, patience, and unconditional support.

“If I could have chosen a father, it would have been him,” Jessica shares. His influence helped her rebuild her trust in faith and led her to embrace her calling.

Her experience highlights the importance of finding spiritual mentors—people who meet us where we are, rather than where they think we should be. Whether it’s a counselor, pastor, sponsor, or friend, having a trusted guide can make all the difference in navigating faith, healing, and transformation.

Conclusion: Finding Hope in Your Own Journey

Jessica Morris’ story is a powerful reminder that faith and healing go hand in hand. Through personal eschatology, she discovered that transformation is a lifelong process. By asking the hard questions, she deepened her faith. And with the guidance of a mentor, she found clarity and purpose.

If you’re struggling with faith, addiction, or past trauma, take a moment to reflect on Jessica’s insights:

• Let go of your old self and embrace personal transformation
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions—faith grows through curiosity
• Seek out mentors who encourage and uplift you on your journey

Healing is possible, and your own personal rebirth may be closer than you think.