Christel Jeffs
Author, blogger, poet
Who I am
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A counter-cultural, creative, country-girl Christian chick who is learning to fall in love with Jesus.
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A creator inspired by the Ultimate Creator, made in His image and able to reflect His glory through the work I do.
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A professional editor/proofreader
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A daughter, sister, grand-daughter, niece, cousin, friend and soon-to-be aunt. These relationships make my life richer than I deserve.
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A semi-professional bridesmaid (not really - but will soon be walking down the aisle for the fifth time. I think I do need to start charging!)
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A full-time warrior; my battle is against depression and anxiety. I'm winning.
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I enjoy theatre, movies, books, journalling, dancing and long walks in inspiring places.
My story
My first attempt at writing was the blatant plagiarism of my favourite storybook. My ever-patient mother, who was my teacher at the time, told me I had to make up Opo the dolphin's story, not just copy from memory. "Fiiine!" was my belligerent reply.
So I began to imagine, and suddenly there was an entire new world appearing in my head. I discovered that Opo had friends and went exploring and helped a little penguin find his way home - yes, very inspiring. But this, my first story, was painted in my mind, created only by me. I loved the freedom I had.
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Eventually I learned I had a way with words. Encouraged by many, I held my talent close, almost as if I was waiting for the perfect moment to bring it forth. University seemed the right time to commit, so I pushed aside worrying words like 'day job' and 'back-up plan' to pursue this passion fully. In 2014 I completed a Masters degree in Creative Writing. The thesis I handed in that year was the starting point of my first novel, The Gumdigger's Wife. My biggest dream was being realised!
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But the dream came not without a cost. I left the university environment with a weak C.V., less-than-perfect story, and a mountain of fears. There was a target I felt I should be hitting and I was failing miserably. Rejections, gruelling re-writes and critiques of my novel (only a writer can truly understand how draining that is), plus a horrible job experience all took their toll.
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In 2016, I was diagnosed with anxiety and depression. I won't go into detail, but the "valley of the shadow of death" David talks about is an apt description for this illness. I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy.
Too many years had gone by with me trying to be perfect, trying to make it through a less-than-perfect world without understanding the true meaning of grace. The things I've been through, and what I continue to battle, are not all bad, though. I believe I needed to be broken in order to be truly made into the woman God wants me to be.
He has been faithful through it all. He is helping to heal what was wounded. He is rebuilding what was broken. And I'm learning to lean on the grace of Jesus like never before.
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Why have I told you this story? Well, you have one too. And it's okay to tell it. That's why I'm sharing mine.
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So I invite you to come on my blogging journey. I want to share truths from the Bible, lessons from my life, and creative works inspired by God. I would love to hear from you, what your thoughts are about topics, anything at all - simply having your readership and support, however, is enough for me.
Thank you for listening to my story. May you be encouraged to share yours, too :)
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