Unpacking Jere: A Different Kind of Growth Project
Personal Growth, Faith & Life, Reflection Jere Van Patten Personal Growth, Faith & Life, Reflection Jere Van Patten

Unpacking Jere: A Different Kind of Growth Project

Who am I without the titles, accomplishments, responsibilities, and roles I've spent a lifetime building? That question launched a six-month journey of self-discovery, healing, and honest reflection. In this post, I share why I've begun asking harder questions, examining old patterns, and learning that growth isn't always about finding new answers—sometimes it's about becoming honest enough to face yourself.

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What’s at the Top of Your Heart?

What’s at the Top of Your Heart?

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time struggling with the Lord in prayer—over my health, my work, my relationships, and the uncertainty that seems to follow all of us from time to time. This week, I’m reflecting on faith, Gethsemane, lost sheep, prodigal sons, and the reminder that God doesn’t wait for us to have everything figured out before He comes looking for us. Sometimes what's at the top of our heart is exactly what we need to bring to Him.

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The Ripple Effect of a Life in Theatre

The Ripple Effect of a Life in Theatre

Inspired by the Tony Awards, this reflection became something much bigger than a celebration of Broadway. It became an opportunity to look back on the people, performances, mentors, friends, students, and moments that helped shape the man I am today. From the first show I saw at thirteen to the classroom and rehearsal hall where I now spend my days, theatre has touched every corner of my life. This essay explores the ripple effect of a life in theatre—the extraordinary power of art to inspire, connect, and transform—and why, even now, I still believe there's time for one more dream.

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THRIVING: A Six-Month Check-In

THRIVING: A Six-Month Check-In

Six months ago, I declared 2026 my Year of THRIVING. I was ready for abundance, opportunity, momentum, and a holy "watch this" moment from God. This essay explores what happened when my expectations collided with reality—and the surprising discovery that maybe God was changing me more than He was changing my circumstances.

In this six-month check-in, I'm not a millionaire, bestselling author, keynote speaker, or Broadway star. My back still hurts. The credit cards still exist. And yet... somehow, I'm thriving more than I was before. I reflect on marriage, family, teaching, faith, writing, and the surprising realization that maybe the life I've been looking for isn't somewhere else.

Maybe thriving isn't found in finally arriving. Maybe it's found in fully showing up where I already am.

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