Welcome to Oak & Bower

From familiarity of the greatest perhaps, to embodying Good Tidings of Great Joy.

Morning Solace by Yongsung Kim

I knew at a very young age that I wanted to write. Now the time has finally come to greet you ‘Welcome’ from my own creative space and it will never fail to amaze me— it makes me so happy. I am really glad to have you here.

So, it took me about a decade to feel safe sharing my creative work— making videos, publishing on social media, writing in general, the horrible cringe of attempting self-promotion, and so much more. Whenever I created and shared something, I felt so much shame… it was emotionally excruciating. I had this destructive mindset that I needed to be perfect before I could even share something inspiring. Something— literally anything, about myself, to the world.

I thought countless times,
who am I to share something good?
Is it even good? The best of the best?
Would this qualify enough to help someone?
Anyone?

I deleted and threw away a lot of things I made.

Looking back,
I would do anything to get those creations back.
Looking back,
I realize now that I had something extraordinary
that depression couldn’t comprehend,
and that it only found threatening.
A threat because it was light and good.
Because it was safe.

Now, as I look forward— I can imperfectly and confidently share these words now because of the power I receive as I trust in Jesus Christ, over and over again. My loved ones supporting me, the many mindful practices, and having moments alone with Him were the essential stepping stones I took and still take to bind my heart with His.

Of all the names I created for this special work, I always came back to Oak & Bower. The Oak is a symbol of our Father in Heaven— a reminder of our potential in God— strength, stability, endurance, and so much more. The Bower, defined as a pleasant shady place under trees— a remembrance that Jesus Christ is our solace. I also think of Bower birds (you may have seen a bird on my welcome page!) that build beautiful arches to attract their mate and the unique (even funny) process they go through to do so— a metaphor for how we can all build healthy relationships in our own ways and even thrive as an individual— as a follower of God.

Welcome to my writing sanctuary. Reciprocity of respect, compassion, and kind curiosity would be most appreciated. If you’re open enough, I hope that you can feel God’s existence and love for you as you read any of the words He gives me.

Welcome, welcome, welcome to you— dearest reader.

Oh! What does the Morning Solace art make you think of?
I felt it was the perfect piece for this post!
I’d like to think you love it as much as I do, hehe.