This Substack is dedicated to curiosity and understanding. The name HEADSPACE signifies thinking and writing all in one space and is my brain, apart from my actual, physical brain. In a way, it’s a personal experiment to use writing to benefit myself and others. It’s an attempt to make my writing restorative for both me, the writer, and you, the reader.

One of the big pieces that make up who I am as a person is my religious background. I wasn’t always a confessional Lutheran, but I have grown up with large amounts of Christian influence in my life. Not growing up with confessional Lutheranism, the road was rocky, and I didn’t always have as strong a theological backbone as I do now. The basic faith that grew out of my baptism was always there (as it still remains today), yet there were frequent moments when I didn’t understand.

This is why, when my family became members of a small church in the very small Evangelical Lutheran Synod, my understanding and comprehension of theological topics changed, and so did my worldview and general outlook on life. I was no longer in despair over theological conflicts that made war in my head as I tried to figure out the big question of adolescence (that is, “Who am I?”) - rather, I was comforted with the truths that flow from the Gospel and the powerful theology of Lutheranism. For once in my life, I saw the Bible for what it was through the lens of the cross.

This is why HEADSPACE echoes my love for theology. Becoming a confessional Lutheran and being a confirmed member of the ELS, the pieces of God’s great mysteries were suddenly mysteries no longer, but rather truths hiding in plain sight and made clear by a distinction between Law and Gospel.

Being this way, I have also always had strong convictions about things. Even if I didn’t latch on to writing as I have, I still would have had the mind of a writer, flowing with thoughts, ideas, and considerations that proved a sort of entertainment and comfort as I reasoned my way through this somewhat difficult and struggle-some life. My inner voice often voiced its way through, and thinking has been a place where I’ve found freedom to grow.

HEADSPACE is ultimately a sanctuary. A sanctuary of thoughts and ideas. A sanctuary for the Gospel and the orthodox teachings of Scripture. It is the message of an imperfect person to try to shine God’s light and love in a dark and gloomy world.

I’m James. I’m a writer, a thinker, a maker, and a student. Currently, I’m a Biochemistry major and Pre-Seminary student at Bethany Lutheran College in Mankato, Minnesota - but being that Bethany is a Liberal Arts institution, I get to dabble in all sorts of different things that would otherwise be outside of my major, such as writing, music, religion, philosophy, and so much more.

I’m also a confessional Lutheran and a person who loves to help and serve others, regardless of who they are. I’m an avid proponent of individuality, and I think that people should not be afraid to share, speak, and show their ideas.

As a writer, I contribute to publications at BLC, and I also write and manage this Substack as a sanctuary for my thoughts, ideas, and encouragement to fellow human beings who are in this crazy life with me.

I also enjoy being able to use my creativity apart from just writing, so I have taught myself how to use Figma and how to work with web development and design. Both of those things are hobbies that I don’t get to do enough, but I’m honestly glad that I sneak time here and there to work on those skills anyway.

Above all, I’m passionate about the Gospel as I write because of the great wonders that God has done for us. Everything I do is for His glory because of what He has done for me. Soli deo gloria - To God alone be the Glory.

If you’re here with me on this adventure, I’m happy to have you tag along. Feel free to subscribe, and also, feel even freer to reach out. If you’re interested in my other work or want to see what else I can do, check out my portfolio at heyjames.space to see what else I’ve created. Also, if you want to learn more about what my personal beliefs are, check out manifesto.heyjames.space.