I have started “journaling.” I have voluntarily taken a mentor. His name is G. Lynn Nelson, who promotes creative journaling, through his Writing and Being book. He says journaling can heal your past, claim your present, and transform your future.
I believe the journal, the product of one’s journaling, is not an end that results in these effects; rather, it is process that liberates one from the leash of the past, that allows one to enjoy the now, and in so doing, charts a course that is life-changing.
"I often suggest to beginning journal keepers, "Let a journal find you." — G. Lynn Nelson, Writing and Being
I am a journaling newbie. I thought to do it one day, after feeling I should do so. I found a simple yellow ruled notebook, no-glare off-white pages, and Smyth-sewn which I thought would render a nice feeling to the writing.
After a few pages of Writing and Being, which I bought when I was about a few weeks into my journal, I found out it was to be my first step, find a journal, or what Mr. Nelson says, “Let a journal find you.” And I did—it was very affordable, far from the price of a Moleskin, but comparable in quality and look.
I learned that journaling is not the same as keeping a diary. [I will let Mr. Nelson tell you the difference. It's a long story.] One thing I learned is that journaling is much more than listing down your activities and telling what happened. Journaling is far deeper than that, he says.
I thought to share with you some lines from my young journal of 27 days.
- What a day experiencing the fruits of hard-earned college diploma, the joy of extreme friendships, and the blessings of family.
- I realized writing is not an easy thing to do, as I imagine and always say it is.
- I remember my boo boo, not having taken a picture with her before she passed on.
- What happened today?
- Just a quiet walk with a loved one is a blessing.
- It is not good to preempt stress.
- My journal writing is my meditation.
- My frustration just went out the window.
- I am amazed by the sight of us all, together, and being and doing something together.
- A relaxing day today; but I don’t remember the feelings.
Journaling makes me visit myself, or revisit, if you will. For me, it’s good for the soul.
