Journal the Journey

“Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart”.

William Wordsworth

I just opened my new leather journal with an embossed tree on the front. The tree as become my symbol of legacy.

A new journal is one of my favorite gifts. I enjoy exploring all kinds, as the look and feel of the pages, the binding and the colors inspire me. I try to pick one that reflects my current season of life.

I am venturing into the world of book writing once again. In this process, I have categorized my journals beginning from 1985. I have chronicled my transitions, my journey, my revelations, my prayers, my deepest joys and sorrows, questions and dreams. The journals fill a huge bin. As I read about the birth of my children, my struggle with infertility, the move to Austin and all the celebrations I am experiencing healing and savoring of those moments like never before.

As Joan Didion says, “I remember what is was to be me: that is always the point.”

I have always known the value of journaling and find it to be a powerful, daily tool to navigate emotion, manage stress and build emotional wellness. It gives me a safe place to be me, a journey into my soul. I look forward to it.

Extensive research shows that individuals who occasionally write about their emotions and thoughts experience several benefits: increased feelings of well-being, reduced physician visits, reduced absenteeism from work, improved academic grades and enhanced immune system functions. ( Lepore & Smyth, 2002; Pennebaker, 2004)

I believe there is priceless value in the written word, whether it be in history books, children’s books, letters, the Bible, cards or music. All written words take time and energy.

This becomes more apparent as I get older. My desire is for my children and grandchildren to know wisdom, the power of my faith and my life lessons. Maybe it can make them stronger and wiser and live their legacy in truth.

As I journal, I feel I am speaking the truth. I am being real, no pretending or holding back. I respect myself and acknowledge my state of being. It is a practice I encourage to my family, friends and clients. Find a way to journal. Type it up! Draw or paint.

Cleanse and refresh your beautiful soul.

As there are a thousand thoughts lying within a man that he does not know till he takes up the pen to write.

William Makepeace Thackeray