The Healing Power of Journals: A Journey of Self-Discovery

I have tried to be consistent in writing a diary, but it has been a challenge. However, Irsquo;ve documented my experiences and thoughts in various ways over the years. Recently, reflecting on my past practices, I realized the importance of journals in personal growth and self-understanding.

From Childhood to Recovery

When I was a child, I had a diary with a key and lock. I adored the privacy it offered. The influence of a book by Judy Bloom inspired me to write letters to God. At seventeen, I started a daily recovery journal for 12 Step work and used a small blue book from NA to record my progress over a year. These journals have become invaluable time capsules, allowing me to revisit my youthful self from forty years ago.

Understanding Through Literature

Reading The Color Purple by Alice Walker opened my eyes to the emotional and spiritual journey of the protagonist, Celie. The bookrsquo;s opening begins with letters to God, which I found relatable. For Celie, these letters were not just a form of light reading but a source of solace and support during a tumultuous period of her life.

ldquo;Why does The Color Purple open with dear God?rdquo; I asked myself. The answer lay in the intimate relationship Celie had with God, a source of strength and guidance in her absence of human connection. The letters reveal her deep faith and the lack of support from her earthly family.

Personal Reflection and Growth

Journaling, whether in a traditional format or through tarot cards, helps me know myself better. A wise man once suggested, ldquo;Know thyself,rdquo; and channels like this can be powerful tools for self-assessment. Each entry is a step toward understanding my thoughts, behaviors, and motivations.

I often share my reflections on platforms like Quora, but I also keep a private diary to record more detailed observations and memories. Writing about daily experiences, memories, and interactions helps me grow and learn.

The Beauty of Secrecy

Privacy is crucial in journaling. I maintain a small notepad that I use to jot down ideas, plans, and personal details. Itrsquo;s not decipherable by others, and Irsquo;m comfortable keeping it private. While the notebook contains no secrets, I value the ability to think freely without the fear of judgment.

The journal entries are not written in a spoken language but in a code. This cryptographic approach ensures that only those who know the method can read it. It adds a layer of fun and challenge to the process, making journaling an even more enriching experience.

Conclusion

Journaling is a journey of record, a way to reflect on and understand oneself. It can be a deeply rewarding endeavor, whether shared with others or kept private. If yoursquo;re hesitating, start today. Engage in the dialogue with a friend you havenrsquo;t met yet, and let your thoughts and experiences unfold. The journey is richly rewarding, and it will be yours to revisit in the future.