How did you meet your significant other?

I am truly grateful for the opportunity to have served in the military. Joining the military has given me many experiences and benefits that have shaped the person I am today. Through my military journey, I gained valuable relationship experiences, became a mother, had opportunities to travel, developed a stronger drive for education, gained language and translation experiences, and built lifelong friendships.

If the military had not been a part of my life, I would have missed out on so many beautiful opportunities for growth. One of the most meaningful experiences was meeting my spouse while serving in the military. Our relationship was unique because we came from very different backgrounds. I am of Caribbean descent, spoke a different language, and was raised with a different culture, mentality, and upbringing. He came from a completely different background.

Despite our differences, God brought us together. What began as two people from different worlds grew into a beautiful marriage that has lasted for more than 27 years. Together, we have been blessed with three beautiful children, and our family is one of the greatest blessings of my life.

My military service provided me with many memorable life experiences and important milestones that shaped my personal and professional journey. Those experiences taught me about resilience, relationships, sacrifice, growth, compassion, and the importance of helping others navigate difficult seasons in life.

Everything I experienced throughout my military career and my life became part of the foundation for my desire to help others. Those experiences ultimately inspired me to create the Hear to Heal Companion Book and Hear to Heal App, an emotional wellness and guided journaling system designed to help people process their emotions, reflect on their experiences, and find encouragement as they navigate life’s challenges.

Looking back, I can honestly say that joining the military changed the course of my life in ways I could never have imagined. It introduced me to my spouse, gave me experiences that shaped my children and family, expanded my education and perspective, and ultimately helped lead me toward a purpose of helping others heal.

To learn more about my books, the Hear to Heal Companion Book and App, and other resources created to inspire, encourage, and support others through their life journeys, visit www.j3russellbooks.com. You can also follow me on Instagram at @j3russellbook & @heartoheal.combo for updates, inspiration, new releases, and more.