A text no parent wants. (Trigger warning: Discussing shootings) | VLOG

Hey ya'll, I'm Jess from Roots & Refuge Farm
Welcome to a place that feels like home. A small farm with a big family. We hope you'll pull up a chair, grab some coffee and visit awhile.
There was a time that all I wanted in the world was a little farm where I could raise my family and grow our food. Now, that is exactly what exists outside my door. In watching it unfold, a new dream was formed in my heart - to share this beautiful life with others and teach them the lessons we've learned along the way. Welcome to our journey, friend. I am so glad you're here.
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PO Box 4239
Leesville SC 29070
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PRODUCTS WE LOVE - You've probably heard me talk about these things a million times, so here's where you can order them (and get a discount with my code!):
- Greenstalk Vertical Gardens (Use code "ROOTS10" for $10 off your order): rootsandrefuge.com/yt-greenstalk
- Squizito Tasting Room (Use code "ROOTS" for 10% off your order): rootsandrefuge.com/yt-squizito
- ButcherBox: rootsandrefuge.com/butcherbox
- Growers Solution: rootsandrefuge.com/growers-so...
- Neptune's Harvest Fertilizer: rootsandrefuge.com/neptunes-h...
#rootsandrefuge

[@georgianamcglinchey573]

Jess don’t take in the noise. I’m 68 and have lost many loved ones, including a child. We can’t bring peace to others unless we have it in ourselves. You are a blessing and you bring so much to others. It is not easy in the crazy to put yourself out there and share. This was a lovely post, and watching you gather eggs drew me outside to turn the compost and feed the birds and take the dogs for a walk. We don’t need others judgements and assessments about what is right in our lives. You bring peace and smiles to so many. Thank you.

[@paulmastre8202]

Many answers come from within. Stay strong and remain an example. Love and prayers

[@user-fl9oo6rn6b]

Exactly! I'm a year older and have the lost many including my son at 40 this year. I come to hear Jess and Miah and watch her "little ones" because I need the peace, humor, and humanity they show us. What gets me through my losses is Jess' attitude of gratitude. I rejoice that I have had the time I've had with those loved ones who have "graduated" before me. But it took a while to get to that point. The horror of the phone call from the medical examiner (or a text about a child in a horrendously evil situation) is not to be taken lightly. My heart and my prayers are with all the Sowards always. Much love to you and thank you for putting this out to remind us that life can be uh... difficult but also beautiful.

[@cjpwrs8263]

Amen to that!!!

[@carriefry4341]

Jess - just keep your light sparkling out into the world and those of us that see you will sparkle back. ✨

[@Natasha_Florida]

I love this so much ❤❤

[@anmcg3156]

✨️

[@juanitalandry117]

Well said❤

[@therealshanavaughn]

I’m so sorry Jess!! My thoughts and prayers are with you all! I know it’s a very scary situation to be in! We always worry about our kids!!!! I’m going to pray for peace over all of you❤🙏🏻

[@deniseallee2802]

Prayers and if Your not at Peace or Whole how can You help anyone if You aren't taken care of first ❤

[@esseyaich]

Elisabeth Elliot used to say, “When you don’t know what to do, just do the next thing.” Thank you, thank you, thank you for this video. What you described near the end IS leaning toward a solution, of healing what is broken in families and the societies made up of those families. Politics won’t fix this. Whole, healthy families might. Thanks for sharing so authentically!

[@annewhittemore3771]

My husband would tease me for the silliness of saying this to a person on the internet that I've never met, but I love you, Jess. As well as I can without having met face to face, I love the person, Mom, and gardener you are. I love the love that you communicate with when you're excited, scared, angry, sad, or hopeful. I'll be praying for your family and for Milea. I'm sure she has some emotions she's working through, as well as the other side of her family, and obviously the families who have lost their kids. It's heartbreaking. I don't have a point or solution either, but I just wanted to say I love your heart.

[@radhikam2401]

I was in the rat race of life. I was going to “succeed” and be rich and at the top and have a loud voice and do all the things. My body gave up. I got cancer. I lost my house. But through it all, I found Jesus and I found a slow life. I found peace in the garden. Thanks for the video, Jess. Hurt people hurt people. Like you said, the answer is within. And in our own homes. It is not on Instagram. Glad Maleah is safe ❤

[@kellygreen8255]

Oh, Jess! I can’t even….! I’m in tears over here, recognizing your helplessness. Praise the Lord that your precious daughter is safe. Not ok, but safe. How could she possibly be ok? I’m praying for you, her, and Sweet Miah; also for the families who were not as fortunate. I bless you, until next time, sweet friend.

[@carolann6072]

I think your words are most powerful when you think you have nothing to say. Thank you for sharing. Praying for your daughter and for you, dear Mama Jess. Wanting to protect our children never stops no matter how old they are or how far away they are. May the Lord bless and keep you.

[@shermanrn9511]

My daughter is a freshman at UNLV as well and it IS a parent’s worst nightmare. That phone call. All I could do is cry and be heartbroken for my daughter, all the kids, and staff that were on campus. With that said, we are #vegasstrong and the community will come together. Ultimately, we have to look to our faith and look deep into our hearts and hold our children that much tighter. I’m virtually hugging you!!! ❤ One day, we will find peace, even after this horrible event.

[@MaximumLivingNow]

I’m not a homesteader myself…but hope to be someday & what you expressed is exactly why I think I’m drawn to the homestead lifestyle….from what I’ve seen from you & other homesteaders…I’m convinced you are the best of us…teaching us how to get away from all the toxicity & become healthier & wiser human beings….that is HUGE!

[@marigoldmeadowsfarm7495]

I have 2 granddaughters who attend UNLV. I immediately checked in on them & they were safe but my heart has not yet calmed down, the tears have not yet stopped flowing. I would prefer all my chicks under my wings. I’m so sorry you had to go through this Jess. I pray for my educator children who would literally put themselves between their students and a gunman. I pray for my grand babies who live in a world that seems so out of control. You’re in my prayers, debby

[@lonnievancura9702]

❤🙏

[@missychan63]

It's funny that you use that phrase. Most of my grandkids currently live about 8 hours north and I'm getting ready to buy a small bit of property up there with them. My youngest son lives in the same town I currently do and is expecting his first baby with his wife. I told him I wanted the three of them to come up with me and they can build a house on the property. I told him, "I want all of my chicks to have a place to come home to roost"- the way the world is going I think we need to start a family homestead where we can all work together and keep each other safe and fed. It's terrifying and I don't know how we're going to fix it. Glad your chicks are safe!

[@TinaMarie869]

I'm right there with you I pray that America will turn back to God because he is the only one who can fix this 🙏

[@cherylskiles8524]

Love and prayers for you and your family ❤

[@jenniferpulskamp5592]

Debby, sending you love. I’m a retired teacher. So scary.

[@lauramccoy1195]

I cannot imagine, (nor do I wish to) how you must have felt getting that text. My daughter is 25 and out into the world. Not one day goes by that I can’t find something to worry about. I moved to N.C. 4 years ago and discovered gardening. It’s so incredibly therapeutic on so many levels and I wholeheartedly agree with you on making our own bubbles secure before we can go out and fix the rest. I love that you are so real. Thank you and many prayers for your family’s healing.

[@MelanieRodriguez-ko7tc]

Jess……I was involved in a workplace shooting on Nov 17th and I FEEL your pain for the world and have not been ok either. I have so much frustration with humanity. I am a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and I still can’t wrap my head around why we can’t spread love and help heal these people who are in pain and committing such horribly painful violent acts on society. Praying for you and sooooo glad your daughter is safe. Be well and bless you all.

[@Hazelnut_Hiker]

I’m so sorry this happened to you 💔 Sending prayers and love to you.

[@RunninUpThatHillh]

Young people are handed a shitty world. Nihilism runs deep in many. We are in trouble.

[@Joyfulfarmer]

What you are sharing on your platform but also in your daily life is MAKING A REAL, TANGIBLE DIFFERENCE! ❤ You are shining a light and helping to grow peace for others...a little network of roots that just continues to reach outward. I believe you are exactly where you should be doing what you should be doing. Praying for your family and for your sweet girl.

[@rhondaschenk5727]

Rest your heart, mama. It’s OK that you’re not bubbly today or tomorrow. The scare was real and traumatic. We love you and will stand with you. Love you from Indiana ❤️

[@DebWHNP]

Thank you my sweet friend. Praying for your sweet daughter, who should never have had to experienced that horror. As well as your whole family who are collaterally experiencing this. Your content has brought me peace and healing. This video put a face on mental health issues like none other. I wish I could wrap you and your family in a big fluffy blanket of hugs.❤

[@caydancebloom]

as soon as you said, "today, I'm crocheting. Soon I will be making pickled cauliflower...." the tears started to fall down my face. I absolutely relate to that "free-fall" kind of feeling where you can't get your grounding enough to make any kind of plan beyond what's in front of you right now. That "bubble space" is what keeps you grounded! I'm so glad you are solid in that.... and that you spoke about it! Very encouraging, Jess. Thank you for sharing yourself so authentically.... even in the pain. For what it is worth.... His light is shining bright through you during this chaotic time of unknown... Just keep following His highlights!.... your knower knows!

[@caydancebloom]

and don't let anyone tell you how you should or shouldn't respond to this trauma. Allow yourself to feel what you feel because through all of it... He has you!

[@kayleenvanderhorst]

sending you all love and positivity! You all are the light for a lot of people, and we appreciate you!

[@sarahmcqueen2319]

Sending love and comfort!

[@Sh4peofmyheart]

*quiet, squeezy virtual hugs* I'm so grateful that your daughter is unharmed. My heart is with all of the families that were impacted by this horrible tragedy. Love and light to you and yours, Sweet Jess.

[@jenniferespinosa3996]

You never cease to amaze me. How you touch my heart when I least expect it. Thank you for teaching me how to build peace for myself and my family, thank you for reminding and encouraging me to raise my children with full hearts and a healthy home. ❤ When the world looks dark you are a refuge.

[@poeticposturing3850]

Building a homestead is indicative of someone who listens and pays attention to what's going on in the world. You see the need and go for it. It's a giant step. Congratulations.

[@georgiakristine4224]

A beautiful soul you are Jess. You reached within me and touched me in a way I didn't realize was there. I Thank you! Even through your trauma and heartache you still make it real! Through trauma my husband and I found ourselves on a red dirt road in Georgia living life the only way we can secluded with wildlife, gardens and peace. What really opened my eyes was my neighbors all 3 of them also suffered life trauma and it brought them here too. We all survive and function in ways that only we can. Most cant understand that and that is okay.I will continue to pray for your precious girl and for your Mama heart along with Miah and all that surround you. Love from Georgia!!

[@lynne5893]

Living here in Vegas, I want you to know I’m here for you all. Please don’t hesitate. She can come for dinner and chat. There are no strangers in Gods family. Thank you for all you impart to us. The days of sitting in each others homes is dwindled so much. So ty for sharing your feels and I too need my garden for super anxiety. Papa is a gardener and it’s nice to see all that he’s created for us to discover and eat. God Bless you my friend❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😌

[@Beckaboo1982]

I'm here in Vegas too! Also a teacher in CCSD. Don't hesitate to reach out if we can help in any way!!

[@rosasalas1437]

I remember when was little my brother and his friend were out side in bicycles they were young boys, and Car came up there was lights come out of the Car I had to run back in my home caz he was shoot us , he went back were my brother and his friends were and he shoot at them they run for cover this guy in car shoot 2 friends of our he kill 1 wounded another we were shock like what's happening yes it real happening so not real too , it's awful Jessica I'm so gald your Daughter was safe Thk u Father for take care of Jessica Daughter Thk u Father . Jessica it ok if you feeling the way you are feeling, you don't own us anything , but Thk u for sharing Jessica. 😢 your Human too feeling. Love you Jessica.

[@gracedawn]

Body of Christ right there!

[@mistyfrogskiss4614]

Thank you for being you, for being real and sharing your thoughts. Our home is sending all of your family love, prayers and healing.

[@kimschaub2382]

Jess, I am so thankful for your daughter's safety. As a mom and grandmother, I can't fathom getting a text like that. I am sending you a big hug and giving God praise for sparing your daughter. Asking God to place a hedge of protection around his children. This world is upside down and we need him now more than ever. May the families of those that experienced the evil first hand be filled with Gods comfort and love to help them with their pain. In Jesus' name, I pray 🙏🏼

[@tgaskins5650]

I’m so glad you shared. I know that many of us lifted your sweet girl to the Lord because you shared. We appreciate all of the teaching your channel gives us but we are also thankful to be able to pray for YOU and YOUR family and love on you as well. It’s what family does. Continuing to lift you all, and everyone affected by this horrible act to our Savior for comfort, peace and strength. Blessings to all of you ❤️

[@narrowpathfarm]

You are doing what God has told you to do. Help show people how to have a slow, healthy life. Learn how to heal and therefore heal others. You’re right, whole people don’t go s h o o t up a place, hurt, broken people do. Keep doing what you’re doing ❤️

[@jollyranchers516]

I agree 100% Big hugs Jess!! I feel your fear your heartbreak through your voice. Heal yourself sometimes when I have been so heartbroken I have to withdraw and process everything take all the time you need. Will be praying for you.

[@mariannereno-db4db]

THANKS AGAIN FOR KEEPING IT REAL. YOU'RE REAL, YOU DO MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE!

[@thuff1947]

Jess & family, thank you for being a light in a sometimes dark world. Please continue to shine! I am praying for all of you.

[@ws3200wmu]

Thank you, Jess, for this conversation. Today, my college students and I talked about gun violence. Again… as the students need the time and help to unpack their fear and anger. And many are fearful and angry, especially when the violence is so personal to them, not random at all. It affects their sense of safety and their mental health. Which is fragile for most, especially at the end of the semester. I teach history and Gender &Women’s Studies, so the students are used to having challenging conversations. My goal is always to create a safe space for this. They know when the classroom door closes, they are safe. And this is such an important feeling… except today they talked about how their safety is an illusion. No doors keep them safe. And my heart broke for them.

[@sharonsanders9491]

This reality breaks my heart. It's so sad. Tge biggest thing we all want for our children is for them to always feel safe. How dare another " human being" strip that away from our kids!!

[@thebarefootrabbit]

I was tucking in my two youngest twin boys when I was scrolling Instagram and saw your story and what you were going through. I prayed a fast tear-filled prayer and looked at those two-thirds of my mother's heart and was drawn once again to the idea that we need to make a bubble. We need the safety of a home and family and a kitchen with healthy warm food. It isn't hiding at all its drawing in the people you love and making sure their hearts are whole. I have SO much anxiety and intrusive thoughts. My oldest is almost out of high school and I plan on homeschooling my small ones because of moments like that where no matter what some person is causing violence and trauma. There is so much noise in the world, we need our peace. I am thankful for the ability to "stick my head in the dirt" because I am going to pull it out with a carrot in my mouth surrounded by love. I am so happy your girl is safe.

[@debchoate4510]

You are such an amazing woman. Your gift of using your words blesses me so many times, and sometimes so unexpectedly. Your words today brought me to tears. All I can say is I’m praying for your daughters healing and you as parents calm. I’m sure you and Miah couldn’t find each other fast enough in receipt of that horrific text, God give you the peace that passes all understanding. Blessings and peace all🙏🏻💕

[@chloegful]

This is why it is important to pray over your children everyday. Thank God and praying for others involved.

[@GardeningGems]

Your words truly brought tears to my eyes Jess. Whole homes make whole people. This is such a broken world. Sin & evil are running rampant and spreading like a cancer in society. Thank you for being a light in this world. Continuous prayers for you and your sweet family.

[@hannahblackwellbooks]

This is why I’m so scared to send my kids to school. So glad your lovely daughter is physically well. Sending love 🫶🏻

[@rachelrichards8312]

For every time you have said "I Bless you...." to others, may those blessings return to you tenfold.

[@snelokster]

Jess you are spot on. The family unit is the most important influence in raising good people. Anyone who does not know or appreciate that fact is a limited person . Please keep teaching, thinking and doing. I love it all❤️

[@danilynn64]

I hear exactly what you are saying. Keep doing what you do. We need more like you in the world. As an ER nurse, I see the unwellness walking our streets. I learned a long time ago how to decompress and keep my brain healthy by gardening, canning, and raising my daughter with the same mindset. Physical work allows me to stop thinking and just do….

[@ketoqueenyo2431]

My sister got a text of an active shooter at my nephew’s school in Virginia a few years ago. It is terrifying. This world is so sad and angry. Thank god for gardening. Seeing growth is hopeful.

[@lesliebehrens7252]

Raising good salt of the earth kids is a wonderful wonderful way to make the world a better place. Thank you 🐓

[@Latebloomershow]

I’m glad your daughter is okay. I’m heartbroken for the other families. ❤

[@julieanderson5184]

The school experience no student should ever have, the call no parent should ever receive. Blessings to Malia, you and Maya and all your boys.

[@Chellees]

Oh Jess!! I am lifting you and your family up in prayer!! Keep speaking truth and love, and unity!! So many of us agree with you and homesteading!! 🙏🏻❤️😊

[@growjoyfullyhomestead]

Truth. Thanks ❤

[@joytotheworld2100]

My heart hurts for everyone who is going through this tragedy. I, too, have anxiety, and my home is my sanctuary. I am praying for God to heal and give peace to those involved. May The Lord bless you and keep you.

[@zoebehave]

As a parent, there is NOTHING more horrifying and petrifying than hearing that your child is in danger. But also, I feel you in that deep empathy for the state of everyone impacted, including the parents of the person responsible. We are all a village. We need to be. BUT ALSO, laughing because I made SO MANY HOLEY LEAVES into a pasta dish yesterday. It's natural!

[@nyx5743]

As a first time mother with a newborn, this chat really resonated with me Jess. I hope I can create a peaceful, safe and loving home for my family

[@jaebee9308]

You can, and I have faith that because you even know to WANT to... as much as it's up to you, you WILL. ❤

[@nyx5743]

@@jaebee9308 thank you for the kind words! 💕

[@jeanannoshea809]

I just want to thank you for sharing this. Being so vulnerable and yet reaching out and encouraging others, it really matters.

[@riodesigns24]

When I heard this I cried in desperation. You said the word surround and it triggered the song. When I feel like I’m surrounded, I’m surrounded by you! Through all that you have been through, thank you for being a voice of hope to all of us out here. Praying for your family my friend.

[@NikkiS-uk7gl]

This choked me up because it is exactly why I want to homestead, for a peaceful refuge in a chaotic world that you can’t control. You control what you can in the world with the best that you can. Shaming someone for seeking peace is ignorant. Even as an advocate you have to know your limits and take care of yourself. I am so sorry you all experienced that.

[@sunflowerflight]

Jess- I am so incredibly sorry that you all are going through this. Fifteen years ago, I received that call from my parents telling me that there had been a shooting at my sister's university. Thankfully, my sister was alright but sadly five students were killed and many others were injured. It is the worst call a family member can receive. My sister's husband also went to school there and had class in the building the shooting occurred but on a different day. My sister slipped into a deep depression after it happened for a couple months. It was a terrible experience. Please know that so many love you and are lifting you and your family up in our prayers.

[@AssGasGottaBlast]

I just wanted to let you know you've directly helped me and my family eat better and be more mindful of where our food comes from. You've held the door more open than you maybe realize. Your impact on my life has been meaningful and I am proud of you for making this video. It was refreshing to see someone process deep grief in a completely normal and healthy way, you don't see enough of that online.

[@Mlarson528]

You are truly an inspiration to me. Your faith, your love, your encouragement, your ability to push through…I’m so thankful to have you (on the internet) in my life. You pull at my little heart strings. Praying for you and our children. Love you Jess.

[@laurataylor999]

You just gave me so much hope. What you said about creating a safe place of peace in the home perhaps being the answer to a mentally sick society was incredibly profound. Thank you for all the you post and contribute. Wishing you and everyone peace and safety.

[@lifewithmikeandjenn5814]

Excellent points Jess. Our prayers are with your family, that you continue to teach and set good examples. Be blessed ❤🌿 Jenn

[@SageandStoneHomestead]

Goodness the thought that the platform would even be a thought is insane. Thank you Jess for all you do. Your authenticity is so valuable.

[@juliepuhr9806]

The garden is such a gift when a soul is broken….

[@rebeccagrimsley7260]

The scariest call/text a momma can get is a call from a child that is in a terrible situation. Thank God your child is safe. My heart goes out to the parents who have children who were not safe. Our children are our most precious loves. Our most important job as parents is to guard these precious children. Nothing else truly matters. KZbin is enjoyable but it does not come even anywhere close to being as important as our children. You are a wonderful mom. Much more important than anything else

[@cdpoolgirl2813]

Awww,JESS❤, you open up, even when you don't know what to say, you always say the perfect thing 🌎🙏🙌❤️😍🤗

[@southloupriverhomestead4696]

Jess, All of us who watch your channel. We Love You and are sorry this happened.

[@gaitedtrailsfarmandlonghor8986]

I cannot even imagine. As a mother I cry for you. Bless you

[@carlsonscottagefarm9355]

I wish I could give you a hug. Nothing is more difficult than when you feel so powerless over our babies safety and well being. Will be praying for sure

[@GardensandGrace]

Thanks Jess for always being so real and vulnerable. Thanks for sharing hope and joy in a chaotic world. Thanks for giving others permission to focus on home and simplicity. Thanks for sharing so much of yourself even in the moments when I’m sure that’s hard. You are an inspiration to so many. I can’t tell you how many times you have inspired me to harvest joy from my garden and go forward with my dreams when I was so close to giving up. My kids and I joke that you are just part of our family even though you don’t know us. I’m so glad your daughter is safe. We are praying for your family and all the families involved. I’m also praying that you fully feel all the love surrounding you sweet friend.

[@songofjoy4796]

Praying Psalm 91 for your daughter & all who love her.

[@Trina30064]

Absolutely. That’s always my go to in times of fear, needing protection and know I’m in the sheltered arms, under the wings of my awesome, loving Papa God as well as my household! ❤

[@barbaragaspard1989]

My heart truly goes out to you, one never stops the concern for our children what ever age they may be, this is a very changed world.❤

[@KelleyCenturyRanch]

So many love and prayers. My son is in college and they recently had a scare. Thankfully ours was a hoax, but right after he texted us that he was safe his phone suddenly stopped working. That was the longest day! Prayers for you mama!

[@NMWriterofWords]

I've gotten that text as a parent and i've sent that text as a teacher being in a school that had a shooting. It's hard.

[@MelSr8]

I’m so very sorry.

[@janenichols3880]

You are so right.We all have to create our safe bubbles and keep the self nurturing atmosphere that we require to keep ourselves and our families healthy and secure. All the time knowing that God’s got this! Blessings!❤

[@aprilharris9480]

Oh girl, you are speaking truth. We need a safe place, a stressfree environment in our homes and our mental health, and we are allowed to do this without putting our heads in the sand. We are aware, we just choose to deal with it differently and peacefully.

[@barbareemoore4247]

Yes you are right about healing from your bubble ! These other folks are not aware . These are people that end up destoring others !❤️

[@northstarprepsteader]

Hey Jess and Miah, you and your daughter are in my prayers, as well as the other families. 🙏🏻 My heart is with you.

[@elizabethlink3993]

💚 Oh, Jess, my heart and prayers are absolutely with you All! Creating a peaceful, calm, safe home for oneself and family and striving to create community the way you and Miah do IS absolutely the place where change begins..change for all humans to know peace, safety and calmness. Your message is appreciated by me and I am so grateful for you. Sending love and prayers from California. 💚

[@kristalarsen7488]

As a 28 year old, I have lived in many different places and have had threats to the school more times than I’d like to admit. I saw your post on Instagram last night on my way home from work. My heart weeps for you. I remember the phone call I received that my infant son had been hurt and ultimately passed away. The pain you feel as a mother for your children is indescribable. The constant worry when you can’t protect them. The longing to hold them in your arms because you are a safe place. I don’t personally pray to a God, but last night I sent a message to my son in heaven and asked him to protect your sweet daughter. You are surrounded by love and peace. I hope you can feel that again soon. You are teaching miraculously and have inspired so many to have this dream of finding peace. I know I’m on my journey of finding that and in turn I am healing so much. Thank you, Jess. Thank you for being a blessing that I didn’t know I needed. We don’t know each other, but I feel our souls connect in a way. Thank you for sharing your life and wisdom with us. ❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@joanchaffinbawcom5722]

My brother was stationed at the Pentagon during 9/11, and I'll never forget the terror of watching the news stories until we finally learned he was safe. Still we grieved for the families of those who were lost. It's hard to assimilate the hope for light while trying to understand the dark.

[@user-xq6gd9fh8q]

So sorry this happened, it has got to be terrifying for both you two and Malia. These shootings have become more common, inexplicably. Sending a virtual hug your way.

[@carolinapatriot9651]

Praying for you and your daughter. These are tough times. I couldn't imagine the horror and the waiting. We will be praying for the families who lost loved ones as well.

[@dianekreider2684]

I understand Jess. My daughter was in Pensacola right out of boot camp when a terrorist went on a rampage. The young man that was killed was in her graduating class. Life is so fragile and unpredictable. We tend to forget that until it hits us. Go ahead and crochet, rest and tell Jesus all about it. He has you in the palm of his hand. Praying for you and your family.

[@suzenbickford4330]

I'm with you Jess, I had a similar text when my son was in 7th grade. Our text was mainly about making him self small as possible and hiding like no other time. We also told him we loved each other so much and prayed, prayed and prayed until the lock down was over. God heard us that day. Bless you all for making our minds safe.

[@evethompson5498]

Oh Jess, I completely get what you are saying in this vid. The anxiety, my sons were in the military and stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan. No communication at all. That time really taught me to have faith. I falter with that everyday but I still try. My garden is my refuge. Thank you for sharing your fears and joys. Prayers for you and your family ❤🙏

[@gogogardener]

My child was in Afghanistan. What I noticed is how much their faith grew. I prayed... only to be amazed how faith made my child strong when being in a dark space.

[@robertasparks3144]

GOD give you peace Sister. This world is so evil. Jesus is coming soon. You re in my prayers little Sis.💞💞🙏

[@AngiePeladeau]

There are no words Jess. My heart is with you, your entire family and the families of all those involved. I'm hold space and praying prayers of peace, comfort and healing through this experience. Thank you for being steadfast in your blessing of all of us in some of your most challenging times xox

[@vanessastuller8121]

Thank you for your real response. I am praying for your daughter, for you, and for all those affected

[@jessicabennett852]

I’m so very thankful she is physically ok. I can’t imagine what she and y’all are even feeling right now. Praying for y’all.

[@debraflecker151]

Jess, I started gardening 5 years ago, the first video I watched on KZbin, to begin learning, was you. Let me tell you, Gardening shifted the way I live! I am in love with gardening and attribute that to the few homesteaders I watch, buy merchandise, etc. I love that you are being you. You being authentic. God Bless your family during this scary time.

[@normaallen2809]

Nothing makes you feel more helpless than not being able to hold your child while something like this shooting is happening. My prayers go out to you , Melia and the family as you deal with this awful reality.

[@chezelleconroy2951]

My goodness Jess, Our hearts are with you and your beautiful family. ❤

[@kristinafrancis9695]

Praying for you, my friend!!! I am so grateful for your sharing this...Our daughter is graduating from San Jose State on the 19th of this month so I too frequently ponder her safety & recognize God's hand covering her...Thankful your daughter is safe but do recognize safety is not all that is going through our minds & hearts...Being far can be frustrating but we must remember our prayers ARE being heard!!! We have an ever-present Lord! Bless you, Jess!!!! ❤

[@debbenelson1219]

My prayers are with you and the others affected❤ You often use the word "steadfastness", which for you today...the steadfastness of the Lord never ceases, great is His faithfulness! Hang in there Jess, you're doing a wonderful job 😊

[@oneleggedduck]

Your content has helped me create peace for my family and myself for many years and through several tragedies- I know exactly what you mean. I’ll be praying for you and your family to find peace again. So glad your daughter is safe.

[@elaineaugustin9189]

Oh Jess, Praying for your family and those who lost their children. I agree with you, we need to make our homes a place of love, safety and refuge. Ultimately we have to trust the Lord that someday He will return and make all things right. Until then we pray for our children's salvation and safety.

[@gailwatkins8843]

Oh Jess, as one who suffers from extreme anxiety I cannot fathom what yesterday was like for you and Miah. Mental health starts in the homes of caring, loving, faithful, whole adults. There is such an epidemic of brokenness in the world. Keep your bubble and don't let anyone berate you for it. Our faith and our families are where healing begins. So incredibly much love to you and the family Jess. You are loved and you are setting an example of the life for which we should strive. HUGE hugs to you all.

[@jennastewart428]

Continuing to cover you all in prayer!❤️❤️❤️. God bless you dear Jess!

[@karensterling5246]

Jess, you don’t owe anyone an explanation or apology for how you live your life. You’re taking care of yourself and your family. So many people criticize from behind the keyboard but who’s to say they have the answers. You will always have those who follow you because they/we love you. God bless you and keep you “wilder still”. You are loved and you are appreciated. ❤

[@Renie-hl8dd9mw8c]

I'm so sorry for the fear, pain, and anxiety that you and Miah have felt. I am grateful that Malia was in a safe place and is safe. Isn't God wonderful. You are blessed because of the love in your heart for God's creation and even the people who are hard to love. Know that you and your beautiful family are loved by many because of the platform that you were given that is a gift to many people, including me.

[@tfisher67]

Amen sister! You and your family are a good example to the rest of the world on how to create roots and refuge for your family and friends. A lot of people don't have this in their lives and do some evil things that I just don't understand. Praying for you all.

[@juliescott5066]

Bless you Jess...and Sweet Miah and the kids...Bless you all with PEACE ....Thanks for being vulnerable and sharing...

[@kathysultzbaugh3858]

Hugs. I cannot even imagine. When your children are so far away. You just want them to be safe. I am glad the kids were safe. So traumatizing! Just hearing the kids and their voices and being so scared. You are a mom first.

[@kamrieriley6411]

I applaud you for turning the noise down in your life. You are speaking so much truth. Thank you

[@litespeciell]

I am so sorry you and your family had to go through this. This is horrifying and unfathomable, from my perspective living in a country without these types of shootings. This is truly the stuff of nightmares. I am so glad your family is ok and my heart hurts for the families that will never be whole again.

[@deb283028]

Prayers to you and your family. I so needed to hear this message today. We cannot help and heal others unless we heal ourselves. That is self-care not selfishness. Spreading inner peace is making a difference. Don’t change Jess, you just keeping doing you.

[@geraldinemitchell93]

An open heart is the most beautiful thing. thank you dear. You have made a place of peace for your family. Our world is broken for sure but it will be better because your children are in it.

[@phylm7654]

You are an amazing young woman with the wisdom so many of us can only hope to find in our lifetime. Prayers for peace to you and all your family.