Written by: Mariah Isom (@ma.riahh)

The dictionary definition of free will states: “The power of acting without constraint of necessity or fate; the ability to act at one’s own discretion.”

Everyday life can strip the power of free will from the average working woman or man. Starting a family can limit the ability to exercise free will at any given moment. When two individuals commit to a relationship, free will often takes a back seat, as decisions must be made with a partner in mind. Simply surviving, just trying to make it to the next day, can also take away from one’s sense of autonomy.

The freedom that comes with true free will is something the average person may never fully grasp. Waking up, going to work, paying bills, and repeating that cycle daily doesn’t allow much room to understand why someone might willingly become unhoused. According to Google, the definition of “unhoused” refers to individuals or families without a permanent home who may be living in places like the streets, cars, parks, or shelters.

@theoriginaljesska

♬ original sound – JessKa

Viral TikToker JessKa has stirred conversation over the past few months with debates and think pieces about her decision to embrace free will by remaining unhoused and traveling. JessKa is a 35-year-old single woman with no children, three degrees, and her own business. She’s learned how to use social media to her advantage. In a TikTok she posted last July, JessKa shared that she packed up her five-bedroom, two-bathroom home because it was a huge waste of money. In another TikTok from August, she said:

“After 30 years of only being able to depend on myself, I feel like my best self when I’m alone, traveling and exploring new things without having to factor in anyone else’s feelings or schedule.”

JessKa

JessKa’s followers already knew she was on the move, exploring the Midwest, St. Louis, Chicago, and right here in the 317. She’s not afraid to share her journey as a traveling business owner selling cosmetics. Earlier this month, on the 14th, she posted a promo video on TikTok, and the platform hasn’t stopped buzzing with discussions about women dating while unhoused.

The main question TikTok seems to be grappling with is: Should JessKa be dating while unhoused? Some believe her priorities are out of order, while others argue that if a man is involved with her in any way, he should ensure she has a roof over her head. Asking questions is fine—but trying to shame a woman who has no children, holds three degrees, and runs her own business for exercising her free will is another matter entirely.

@theoriginaljesska

♬ original sound – JessKa

The real think pieces should focus on how long it takes someone to get placed into stable housing in this economy. JessKa has been transparent on her TikTok page, showing her apartment tours and explaining that finding a place has been difficult and repeatedly delayed.

According to the dictionary, joy is defined as “a feeling of great pleasure and happiness.” Living and creating in your power through free will can be a long journey, but it may be the true path to that feeling of joy.