The Compass Chronicles: Javier and Mickey discuss Recovery and Redemption with Jessica L. Morris

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A clear sky, a cigarette in the cold, and a question screamed upward: “When do I get to have my turn?” Jessica L. Morris takes us back to the moment her life cracked open, then walks us through what came after, including years of depression, suicidal thinking, and addictions that nearly took everything. Her story is raw, specific, and deeply relatable for anyone touched by family alcoholism, religious trauma, or the exhausting cycle of trying to numb pain with food, alcohol, spending, or perfection.

We talk about the unexpected turning points that actually lead to addiction recovery: a sister drawing a line, a counselor naming the real barrier, and a first meeting where nobody wanted anything from her except for her to come back. From there we dig into forgiveness, amends, and the hard truth that healing often requires both spiritual surrender and practical mental health support. Jessica shares why therapy, recovery community, and faith are not competitors, and how each can carry a different part of the weight.

We also explore her book Higher Powered and the idea of “dying to self” as a daily practice, not a dramatic speech. Jessica explains surrender in everyday terms: letting go of the fantasy life, showing up to what’s in front of you, and staying open to God’s purpose in ordinary places, even a hospital hallway after surgery. If you’ve been asking what to do next, her advice is simple: pray “help,” pray “thank you,” and keep your heart open.

Find Jessica’s books, blog, and spiritual direction work at jessicalmores.com. If this conversation helps you, subscribe to Compass Chronicles, share it with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review so more people can find it.

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For listeners looking to deepen their engagement with the topics discussed, visit our website or check out our devotionals and poetry on Amazon, with all proceeds supporting The New York School of The Bible at Calvary Baptist Church. Stay connected and enriched on your spiritual path with us!