Sturgill Simpson has been a huge part of my healing journey. His music has been a source of profound inspiration, guiding me through some of the most challenging times in my life. His powerful lyrics and unique sound have not only provided comfort but also inspired me to embark on my own journey of self-discovery and growth.

The other night, I decided to take some shrooms. I prefer to do this alone because it helps me learn a lot about myself. I also started therapy about eight months ago, which has been instrumental in my growth and self-discovery. Growing up with a mentally abusive mother and a father who, while great, was emotionally distant, has shaped much of who I am. My parents divorced when I was around ten. My escape was my involvement in sports; I traveled around the country with dreams of becoming a professional athlete. When that career ended due to lack of sponsorship, I continued to engage in sports just for fun.

Now that I’ve transitioned to a new phase of life away from the intense commitment of full-time sports, I’m trying to figure out who I am as an adult. I’m just beginning to learn how to feel my emotions instead of blocking them out. It’s a challenging yet beautiful process.

During my recent shroom experience, “Jupiter’s Faerie” came on. Since the release of Sturgill Simpson’s new album, "Passage Du Desir," I’ve realized that his songs can be interpreted in many ways. “Jupiter’s Faerie” resonates with me as it seems to reflect both the loss of a friend to suicide and the death of an old self, leading to a rebirth. I find Sturgill's ability to convey such profound themes through his music truly beautiful.

As I listened, I was overwhelmed with emotion, feeling a massive wave of love and warmth. It felt like I was finally starting to let go of my old self, reflecting on how my past has shaped me and beginning to accept it.

One lyric struck me deeply: “We belonged to the darkness and the moon, but I escaped that life and found a light so bright, thought I might live in its sun.” This resonated with me as I was ending my professional sports career, meeting the love of my life, and starting anew. Moving out of my mother's house, starting a new job—everything was fresh and new. I was learning how to be an adult and find my purpose. My amazing therapist, who specializes in ADHD, has helped me immensely. I’m feeling better than ever and starting the process of healing and transformation.

The shrooms have significantly aided my healing process, helping me become more self-aware and simplifying complex thoughts. The experience was magical, and it felt like the song lasted for 30 minutes. I realized that life can be simpler and less stressful than I often make it out to be.

As the song ended, another realization struck me: I felt secure knowing I’m right where I need to be in life—my work, my personal life, my health journey, and my relationship. My boyfriend’s simple approach to life and his way of thinking complement me perfectly. I realized that it’s okay to live simply, and it’s often better that way. Feeling that I’m in the right place was the most moving and powerful emotion I’ve ever experienced. It was truly beautiful.

When “Who I Am” played next, the wave of happiness and energy I felt was extraordinary. I felt like a brand-new person, finally able to accept my past and move on. I realized how short life is and that, in the end, the most important things are love, family, friends, and health.

I’ve finally started to find “comfort in knowing that nothing ever stays the same.” Sturgill Simpson’s music has been my saving grace—powerful and moving. Whenever I need a lift, his music is always the answer.