Tommy O'Brien

Tommy O'Brien

photo by: We Are The Rhoads. 

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself, your story and where you come from.

I get the name Tommy after my grandfather Thomas Thaddeus O’Brien, who had a son named Thomas Michael O’Brien, who thought it’d be a good idea to skip any confusion and bestow the legacy onto me at birth. I grew up in a town called Kennewick in Eastern Washington and moved to Los Angeles for school and work a little over a year ago. Right now I’m studying Communications and Bible, working as a commercial model in LA, writing and recording music with some friends and trying to pay it all off with a side job at our school bookstore. I’ve spent the last twenty-one years looking relentlessly for the things that make me come to life and hope to continue this journey till my last breath this side of heaven. People and their stories fuel this desire, so I try my best to communicate the things they teach me to whoever will sit across from a cup of coffee and conversation.

 2) What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?

I’m about ¾ in to about half of my literary collection, which has raised a bit of a problem considering I carry most of them in a ripped denim backpack wherever I go. A few of the books in my bag at the moment are The Catcher in the Rye - Salinger, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man - Joyce, Big Sur – Kerouac, and The Inner Voice of Love – Nouwen. To me, books are a lot like friends. I swear it’s not in the creepy “I draw a face on my hand and talk to it when I’m lonely” kind of way. When I read, I hear the different voices of narration and care more about the way they are telling their stories than worrying about finishing one conversation at a time. When I read multiple books at a time, I can listen to multiple people’s stories and relate their metaphysical similarities, perhaps similar to how a therapist would by analyzing people’s case studies. So far it’s been extremely eye opening, but maybe I’ll end up realizing I just have literary ADD.

I love watching TED talks late at night. There’s something about the night time that stirs curiosity in me, away from all the noise and distraction.

I listen to as much diverse music as possible, probably because of my upbringing. I’m the only musician in my family, but I definitely got my mother’s musical taste. From a young age our house was filled with Earth Wind & Fire, Michael Jackson, Prince, Elton John, Phil Collins…the classics of a middle aged woman born in the late 50’s. Also, from the time I was eight years old I was in a touring marimba band, playing drums for my church and teaching myself to play guitar and piano by mimicking the sounds I’d hear on Jack Johnson records. Taste is a great thing to develop as a creative, but in order to begin that process I believe a person must be exposed to as many sights and sounds as possible before drawing a box around themselves.

photo by: Andrew Parsons Photography

3) What's an ideology you live by?

See everybody as a teacher. I’m a follower of Jesus Christ, and have found ultimate life from this active relationship. However, I think even Christians sometimes put walls up against universal truths when they aren’t taught within the walls of a church. There is so much to learn by pursuing intentional relationships with people who have different stories and constructively challenging beliefs.

4) If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Ireland. As a kid my grandfather would always talk about our Irish heritage. He passed away last September and I wish I would have gotten the chance to visit our home land together. I hope some day I’ll make the trip with my dad.

photo by: We Are The Rhoads. 

5) What are three things you want to accomplish before you die?

This is a heavy question. I want to marry my best friend, share our lives with our children, and never stop following my convictions. I think these three things will lead me to discovering accomplishments I couldn’t even begin to envision at the moment.

6) How can we, as young people, inspire and encourage others?

Today’s youth has such an opportunity to reshape the world around us, for better or worse. I could go on for days discussing how important a child’s mind is in its stages of development (to be genuinely loved and affirmed as unique human beings), as well as the importance for these minds to have an opportunity to flourish in their intended environments (to understand that life is an empty canvas for their uniqueness to create an original work of art). However in order for that discussion to take place, I think the youth must first realize how important it is to care for other people. We are only as good as those we care about least.

photo by: We Are The Rhoads. 

7) If you could tell the whole world one thing, what would it be?

That thing you are still searching for, that emptiness you’ll try to fill with anything you can get your hands on, is the one thing that makes you the exact same as every person you’ll encounter every single day for the rest of your life. This mysterious gap in humanity is the one thing that will bring us together if filled with a Love that supersedes pride, envy, selfishness, or any material possession. Never lose your curiosity for this Love. 

Mitchell Riemersma

I've known Mitchell for awhile, but I've gotten to know him better over the last year or so. And I can definitely say I'm a big fan of this guy. 

Mitchell Riemersma

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself, your story and where you come from.

I’m Mitchell James O’Hearn Riemersma, I was born in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and haven’t lived anywhere else my entire life. I love reading, working out, spending time with friends, playing strategy games, and I’ve been playing piano since I was in first grade. I’m currently a Sophomore at UW Oshkosh attending for a degree in Interactive Web Management (a new degree that merges skills in public relations, marketing, and software/web development). I have 3 younger siblings, and I think it’s incredible how God brought us all together: Brice and Hope were adopted through Foster Care and we adopted Anna from a young couple that my parents met in youth ministry. I have a greater appreciation for both family and for divine providence.

2) If you could send a text message to anyone in the world, what would it say?

If I can get a response to the text, Edward Snowden. I’d ask him something along the lines of “with the revelation you gave America regarding the public’s violation of privacy, what actions do you recommend we take next, both as individuals to protect ourselves from a corrupt government and as a citizens to make a change?”

3) Where do you want to be in ten years?

Running PR/technology development for an up-and-coming or small business to support a family!

4) How would you spend your last day, if you knew you were going to die?

Somewhere in nature that I’ve never been before, just talking to the people I love.

5) What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?

I’m currently into Parks and Recreation, a dry comedy about government division in Indiana, while eagerly awaiting the last season of How I Met Your Mother. I recently got a ton of new alternative music that I’m working my way through including Future of Forestry, Lydia, The Xx, and Fleet Foxes. I can’t wait for the newest Mayday Parade album!

6) What's your go to shower song?

As of yesterday, Shake It Out (Florence+The Machine).

7) If you could tell the whole world one thing, what would it be?

Life is far too short to waste time squabbling with each other over minor things. God created a planet for us to cultivate and enjoy together, let’s focus on what really matters.

Brittany Ferra

I met Brittany a couple of years ago at a musical festival in Phoenix. She's hilarious and tons of fun, and I can't wait to hang out with her again someday. Here she is!

Brittany Ferra

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself, your story and where you come from.

I was born and raised in hot Phoenix, AZ. My dad was a youth pastor when I was growing up and my mom has stayed at home and taken care of me since the age of two. My parents taught me everything I need to know about being a Godly woman of Christ. My dad gave me the courage to say no to wrongdoing and my mom gave me the strength to hold my head up high when I did. 
I have three siblings that I love. Seeing the younger two grow up before my eyes is awesome. My older brother has been moved out for awhile but we still hang out and laugh. I love animals. I hate bugs. I hate heights. I love laughing. I think God has more to offer than people realize. My life hasn't always been daisies and roses. A bitterness consumed my life around the age of ten when something disastrous struck. Although I'd rather not tell you what exactly it was, it tore my life, my being, and my heart apart. Nothing brings you closer to God like hitting lower than rock bottom. I refused to let God help me until I met someone who taught me I don't have to be afraid to let it out the truth even if it's painful, embarrassing, and tragic. I didn't let out my secret until 16 and that's when God started mending me back together. He put people in my life to support me and set up a path that wouldn't be destructing any longer. I graduated high school with a smile on my face not only conquering the books and classes, but conquering my past. I played club soccer my four years of high school and it was such a great experience besides all the set backs from injuries. I went straight into college from high school hoping my brain would stay in shape... I think it needed a well deserved break though. The first semester didn't go as planned and I felt myself crawling in a hole, but then I decided when life gets ya down, ya gotta just keep swimming (Dory). I stood back up and took on some more classes and did much better. I am in my second year of college and going strong.

2) What's your favorite way to spend a summer evening?

Summer is simply too dang hot in Phoenix, but I do love getting in my sweats and looking at all the clothing on Pinterest while listening to some music. If I do decide to go outside, it would be to play some sports or run with my besties.

3) Who are three people that inspire you?

I think it can be hard to inspire me because sometimes I have more of a negative attitude than a positive one. But the first person who has always inspired me is my grandma Brigida; she's got a heart of gold and I can always see it. From this day I still remember the verses she taught me when I was little... John 3:16 and Psalms 23. 

My dad is the second person who inspires me, all my life I have always seen people quit, but he has never quit. He stays strong and teaches me that if you want something, you gotta earn it. Nothing gets handed to you. I haven't had things handed to me and I am thankful for that. I earned my diploma, I earned my soccer awards, and I earned my respect. He also inspires me to keep on laughing even when times are grey. A laugh can change any mood. 

The third person who inspires me is my mama. She has so much compassion for people and willingness to help them out. She gives her time and money for those in need and I know one day she'll be rewarded for it. She also is always always there when I need to cry or throw something. The words and lessons are right on the nail.

4) What are you currently listening to?

I'm listening to "Cruise" by Florida Georgia Line.

5) What's one of the most beautiful things you've ever seen/witnessed?

This past summer I went to Honduras on a ten day mission's trip. One of the days we were up in the mountains where the roads are bumpy and the people are amazing. It began to pour and everyone ran into the tiny medical house. When the rain subsided, I walked out of the house and there I saw it, numerous mountains with the clouds covering the middle of them with the peaks sticking out and horses walking around on the wet ground. It wasn't only breathtaking but also humbling.

6) If you could spend an afternoon with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be and what would you do?

If I had the chance, I would want to hang out with David from the Bible. After he taught how to use a sling shot properly, I would just sit and talk to him... explore his mind and heart.

7) If you could tell the whole world one thing, what would it be?

I have so much to say to the world, but if I had to choose one it would be God created EVERYTHING; Believe it, accept it, and thank Him.

Lynsey Winkelman

I've known Lynsey for years, but we've recently been talking more and I couldn't be happier about it. She's kind, warm and very dedicated to things that are important to her. I'm thrilled that she wanted to be a part of this. 

Lynsey Winkelman

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself, your story and where you come from.

Hi! My name is Lynsey and I’m one of Nashville’s newest Midwestern girl residents. Wisconsin will always be my home but I recently moved to Tennessee in attempt to challenge myself and find adventure. Mission accomplished. It’s really difficult for me to be living so far from my family and friends. Mostly I miss my mom’s perfect tuna salad, our lame-o sounding game nights, and late night Shabbat sing-alongs (ranging from T-Swift to Fiddler on the Roof and everything in between) with the coolest siblings around. But I felt strongly that Yahweh was pulling me here and I knew that I needed to follow His direction or else I would always be wondering. It’s crazy how He worked everything out for me… I literally didn’t even have to do much at all! He provided the kindest family for me to live with, a job in a really tough school as an exceptional educator for some precious third graders (I guess I can’t complain – challenge is what I was going for, right?), and a lovely, supportive, Messianic fellowship that has taken me in and really made me feel part of something bigger. I still don’t know why I am here or what Yahweh’s plan for me is, but I’m trying to take everything as it comes and be okay with it Other unimportant tidbits – I like to run but only in small spurts of a couple months at a time, I love finding healthy and delicious recipes but I usually pair them with some type of brownie sundae, I’m a bit of a coffee snob but can force down some Dunkin Donuts coffee if need be (which happens all too often), I live for my phone dates with the best friends, and I think that even though the world is broken, there’s so much beauty still to be found in it.

2) What's one of the most beautiful things you've ever seen/witnessed?

That’s a really hard question. I have no idea. I can say that over the last two years I’ve gotten to see most of my very closest friends marry their very best friends. Weddings are the one type of occasion that I refuse to miss because I think that they represent the most beautiful thing in the world.

3) What are you currently watching/reading/listening to?

Listening to – My good friend, Elisha, just released her very first album a couple days ago called “I Will Not Be Silent.” It’s seriously so good; I wish I could buy everyone a copy! The lyrics are really heartfelt and it’s so easy to worship to her music. I have a feeling that between that and Civil Wars’ newest album, I’ll be good for a while.

Reading – Mostly I’ve been reading educational material in preparation for the beginning of school. I work with lots of students who have serious emotional/behavior disorders and, as a first year teacher, I need all the help I can get. I won’t bore you with those titles but I’ve been learning a lot from them! Also, I’m doing “The Creation Gospel” bible study by Hollisa Alewine with some ladies from fellowship. It’s fascinating but pretty intense so it takes quite a bit of time. I’d love to get some easy, pleasure reading in soon but would need some recommendations!

Watching – I always watch the cool shows way after they’re cool. For example, I’ve been watching Grey’s Anatomy for the last six months trying to catch up. Now that school is in session, I don’t watch much TV but I do plan on reserving Sunday afternoons for my Packers  

4) What's something people might be surprised to learn about you?

I feel like someone else should answer this question! When I was younger my go-to response to this question was always that I hated eating with spoons and only used forks. Somehow I grew out of that and, in turn, became less interesting. I don’t think I am a very surprising person to be honest but hopefully people would be surprised to know that even though I may look like I have everything under control; most times I don’t feel like it. I care too much about what people think about me and tend to stress out about it. I love honey turkey and can eat more of that than anyone needs to know. 

5) Where do you want to travel?

I would love to travel to so many places! Number one will always be Israel. I was able to go there for almost two months in 2010 and ever since then I’ve just been dying to go back. You know that when you feel homesick when you leave a foreign country that it will always be top priority. Other than Israel, though, I am intrigued by countries that have completely different cultures. I’d love to go to South Africa or anywhere in Asia. Backpacking in Europe would be cool and I’ve always wanted to visit the Scandinavian countries but I couldn’t tell you why. Umm… should I keep going?

6) Favorite way to relax?

Back patio. Campfire. Good conversation with friends. Sangrias/ ice cream/ something else equally terrible for me. The family that I’m living with right now taught me that combo and I love it! Also, I’m a huge advocate of naps whenever possible.

7) If you could tell the whole world one thing, what would it be?

If I could tell each and every single person in the world one thing it would be that Yahweh created you for a divine purpose. He has given you talents and skills that will make this crazy-broken world a better place, you just need to use them! Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, put everything that you have to offer into it. Don’t let the gifts that you have been given go to waste just because you aren’t where you want to be or where you thought that you would be. I have to be reminded of this often, and so I feel like other people probably need to hear it too!

Sarah Elaine Drummond

I'm so excited to start this project with a sweet friend of mine. Meet the very well rounded and beautiful Sarah. 

Sarah Elaine Drummond

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself, your story and where you come from.

Hi! My name is Sarah and I am a Jane Austen addict. It's been three days since I last read a piece of her work. I was born in East TX, a Lutheran and a country girl. I grew up loving the outdoors and the indoors, books and trees, and everything artsy. I'm an optimist, a dreamer, an idealist, a lover (as in, not a fighter). I was home schooled, yes, but before you crack a joke, I also graduated college Summa Cum Laude. Three years ago, I found my Mr. Darcy and settled down in the heart of TN. Best. Decision. Ever. He is truly my "other half" if such a term was ever perfected. Last year, we welcomed the first of our little Drummonds. This year, I had the honor of fulfilling the dream of costarring in a full-length movie and now I'm working to finish a novel conceived nearly eight years ago.

2. Who is your biggest inspiration?

God, totally. He is the best part of who I am. He has changed and molded me and led me to who I am today. I hope to someday hear I've made Him proud.

And also, my grandmother. She had a tough childhood. During WW2, she gave birth to a second daughter, to whom her husband took one look at and then left, abandoning the three of them. A single mom surviving in the midst of war, getting by with whatever means she found, working at the Royal Air Force. After the war, she fought for citizenship to the U.S. for herself and her daughters. By herself. I could go on and on and on. She was one tough cookie with sayings like "stretched out like a shilling dinner". But I now am forced to see her deteriorate in the horrid clutches of Alzheimer's disease.

3. If you could spend an afternoon with any person, dear or alive, who would it be and what would you do?

An afternoon with Yeshua would be so so awesome! I would have so many questions about God and Torah and life in general. I bet He would have some amazing advice on issues I struggle with as well.

Of course, a close second is Jane Austen. That lady sure knew how to made a sentence compliment and slap you at the same time.

4. What's your favorite way to spend a Sunday afternoon?

Reading or writing with a cup of coffee to the sounds of Michael Buble.

5. What are you currently watching/reading/listening to?

I'm watching Masterchef. I can't cook very well at all, but cooking shows give me energy to try.

In the commercial breaks, I'm reading C. S. Lewis's "Mere Christianity" again. Love that author and his works!

6. What's your favorite way to inspire someone else?

I'm definitely a "do" kind of girl. Like, "watch what I do". The best compliment I've ever received is being called a genuine believer/follower of Christ by an unbeliever. If you say you believe something, follow through in your actions! Don't be all mushy/lukewarm about it.

7. If you could tell the whole world one thing, what would it be?

I'm not really sure. I would pray and ask for the right words, definitely. Probably something like: In this is love, not that we have loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.