This is Who We Are: Jessica Pierce
September 24th, 2014 | John Chandler
This is Who We Are is an interview series where the women and men of Austin Mustard Seed introduce themselves. If you’d like to participate, send an email to Chris Morton.
This week we have the pleasure of introducing you to Jessica Pierce. Jessica is a native of Arkansas (as you can tell from her hobbies below!) but we’re grateful she’s moved to Austin and joined us at Mustard Seed.
Where is the most exciting place you have traveled?
That is a toss-up. Either the island of St. John or Honduras. St. John because the beauty there was beyond amazing. Pictures don’t really do it justice. And, Honduras for several reasons–One, there was a glorious rainforest I got to make an insanely difficult (although worth it) hike through. But more importantly, I went there during a time in my life when hope was difficult to hold on to. I feel like God really spoke to me and showed me more of his heart, specifically through his people. It was a transforming time in my life.
What hobbies do you have?
I like to hike, swim, and watch Razorback football (Go Hogs Go!). I also used to ride horses, which is my favorite thing ever to do and is where I feel completely free…I really need to work that back into my life on a regular basis : ) Also, can laughing be a hobby too? Yes, I declare that it is. Anyway, I like to do that as much as possible.
What food do you bring to a potluck?
Well, I can cook; however, there are other activities I enjoy doing a bit (or a lot) more so I generally stick to things that don’t take a ton of time like good ol’ crockpot recipes or a dessert (especially if they taste good and look fancy, but are secretly easy to make).
Where did you go to school?
I went to school at the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. That is also where I grew up (hence, the strong allegiance to the Razorbacks…my dad has threatened my life if I ever became a Longhorns fan…which will never happen – sorry to all my Longhorn friends). Fayetteville is a beautiful place with loads of character. You should all take a visit there!
What is your day job?
I’m a pediatric speech-language pathologist. I currently work at the children’s hospital.
Who has had the greatest influence in your life?
From growing up and through my 20’s, one of the people who greatly influenced my life was my grandmother. She modeled what it meant to truly value family and friends. She cherished spending time with those that she loved. She was a dedicated and beautiful letter writer, always writing to someone, encouraging them and loving on them through her words.She was also a woman of strength, courage and someone who loved and knew God intimately…a woman of deep prayer – on her knees for us daily. She spoke sweet words of hope and wisdom over me continuously. She was such a treasure. Currently, someone who has a big influence over my life is actually a patient of mine. Although she doesn’t know it, she repeatedly models what it means to be thankful for every day, to be able to find the best in every situation and to be rooted in positivity She chooses to see the good in every situation and in everybody. Just being around her helps me to re-focus on what is important, and take joy in doing that.
What is one thing you love about Austin Mustard Seed?
I REALLY love the community. I love how people are genuine, transparent and how the community as a whole truly values knowing each other and walking through life together.
Contact
Email Address – Jessica.Pierce17 (at) gmail (dot) com