6. JOURNALING
Journaling is meditative writing.  When we place pen on paper, spirit and body cooperate to release our true selves.

“If you read my words, you will have some idea of the depths that I see in the mystery of Christ.”  (Eph. 3:4)

To journal is to experience ourselves in a new light as expression is given to fresh images which emerge from our subconscious.  Journaling requires putting aside preconceived ideas and control.

Meditative writing is like writing a letter to one we love.  Memories are recalled, convictions are clarified and affections well up within us.  In writing we may discover that emotions are intensified and prolonged.

Because of this, journaling can also serve in identifying and healing hidden, suppressed emotions such as anger, fear and resentment.

Finally, journaling can give us a deeper appreciation for the written word as we encounter it in scripture.
 

METHOD: There are many variations for the use of journaling in prayer.  Among them are the following:

+  writing a letter addressed to God;

+  writing a conversation between oneself and another; the other may be Jesus, Mary or another significant person.  The dialogue can also be with an event, an experience or a value.  For example, death, separation or wisdom receives personal attributes and images as a person with whom one enters into conversation;

+  writing an answer to a question,  e.g. “What do you want me to do for you?” (Mk. 10:51)  or  “Why are you weeping?”  (Jn. 20:15)

+  allowing Jesus or another scripture person to “speak” to us through the pen.