Mississippi Native: Jehrod Rose Alain

"Jackson, Mississippi, is not just home, it is my birthplace. And like the prodigal son, I know I am always welcomed here, no matter how far I roam."

What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Today we hear from Jehrod Rose Alain, a writer and creative who grew up and still lives in Jackson. Though he has aspirations of moving to New York City, which he calls “his second home,” Jehrod finds community, inspiration, and beauty in his hometown.

Where are you from?

I am from the creaking pews of a holiness church where “hallelujah” and the joyous sounds of congregational songs permeated the rafters, along with the chords of the hammond organ. Jackson, Mississippi, is not just home, it is my birthplace. And like the prodigal son, I know I am always welcomed here, no matter how far I roam. 

How long have you lived in Mississippi? 

35 years, in fact. And my, how time has passed. 

What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?

Home is where you lay your armor down. It is a place where your defenses are given over to ease and comfort. It is cultivated by the people you love. It is sustained by the gestures of kindness you extend to others. Even more, home is the spiritual work you do in order to find the confidence, the authenticity, and the courage to show up as your fullest, most emboldened self. No matter where you are in the world, home is that place inside you that cannot be denied.

How have you cultivated community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?

I can honestly say it was when I worked as a barista at Cups, An Espresso Cafe in Fondren that I discovered the real Jackson. It was not as divided as one might think. I met and really got to know the stories, dreams, and hopes of my fellow Jacksonians. I saw us striving together in the same river towards a brighter future. Many of the change makers and bridge builders all convened at our little cafe. 

I was also fortunate enough to start a book club there. For the Love of Reading was created to foster a longer conversation and one aimed at connecting over a great read. People were always asking me what I was reading and my former manager Cody also has a deep love for reading. So when he came to me with the idea, it was a no brainer. 

Jehrod Rose Alain.