Jonathan Merritt

Profile Updated: May 11, 2023
Jonathan Merritt
Residing In Portland, OR USA
Spouse/Partner Jennifer Means
Occupation Traditional Healer and Ceremonial Leader, Poet and Writer
Children Madeline, born 1985
Maya, born 1996
Eli, born 2003
Yes! Attending Reunion
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Married twice, 1983 to Jill Kelly and 1992 to Jennifer Means. The second is a charm.
I went to City College and San Francisco State, majoring in Creative Writing, nearly completing the MA, but actually taking no degrees. I worked in a private school and as a counselor for severely disturbed teenagers. I worked in construction, achieving a BA (Barely Able) in sheet rocking, an MS (Marginally Skilled) in carpentry and a PHD in Post Hole Digging. I wrote scripts for computer games for several years, then sold floor coverings for a while. In 1999, I was called to a path of spiritual healing and have followed that path ever since. My wife, Jennifer is a naturopathic physician and acupuncturist and I also run her business. I edited two magazines--a literary journal, Five Fingers Review(1984-87) and a spiritual magazine, Sacred Fire (2004-12). I have published two books of poetry and have a third to finish. I'm working on a memoir about the birth of our daughter, Maya and I have three unfinished novels. I still play my trumpet, though not well. After ten years in San Francisco, I had short stays (2 years each) in Kauai and Boston. I found my home in Portland in 1991 where I tend our garden and keep a fire..

School Story

Senior year, I was in the marching band and we were doing a halftime show against Johnson (I think). I had been sick the day before the game and Mr Anguilo had changed the routine for one of our songs. So, I turned right when everyone else turned left. I found myself playing alone to the Johnson stands. I couldn't figure out--and felt righteous about it--why everyone else was wrong. Luckily, I realized my error, made a snappy reverse and was able to stride back into position just as the song came to an end. It was my one solo.

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Jonathan Merritt has a birthday today.
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Mar 07, 2024 at 4:33 AM
Jun 12, 2023 at 4:35 PM

So good to see you.

Jonathan Merritt posted a message. New comment added.
Aug 29, 2023 at 3:59 PM

Posted on: May 11, 2023 at 5:09 PM

I probably won't be able to come to the reunion, but it's good to remember you all.

May 11, 2023 at 5:06 PM
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May 11, 2023 at 5:01 PM
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May 11, 2023 at 5:01 PM
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Posted: May 11, 2023 at 5:01 PM