01/29/2026
So many people have been coming out of the woodworks to share their experiences of harm in spiritual spaces. I have my own stories too. On both sides. I have not always been a perfect facilitator and I have not always been held with care and integrity.
Its an important conversation to have. Im happy that people are feeling safe enough to use their voice and express what they have been witnessing or have directly experienced.
My own story will continue to unfold. Not just so I can finally speak things that my body was forced to choke down but so we can learn... as a community how we serve each other better.
It feels important to start the conversation off with the majority of what I have witnessed in healing spaces... which isnt harm.
I have witnessed a women bring extra food and chairs to a women's festival to ensure that everyone had enough nourishment and a place we could return to through the day... a place where we belonged.
I've witnessed women stay up late in their tent to have hard but deeply honest and vulnerable conversations because gossip might have been easier but repair was what they wanted.
I've witnessed women sit next to each by the river as total strangers and offer nothing but a deep acknowledgement that they are not alone and their tears are welcome.
My heart has been cracked open by leaders sharing their set with young musicians because they know there is always room for more in the spotlight.
And men too. Showing up. Crying and screaming alongside us. At times holding us or allowing themselves to finally be held.
Folks from all over gathering to sing and dance and pray. Churches opening their doors to new ways of prayer and celebration.
So. Many. Moments.
Can we do better? Yes. Is there an opportunity to learn how to reduce harm and hold stronger levels of protection in healing spaces? Also yes.
But let's not forget that these community spaces... have been healing. And powerful. And raw and real too.
