subject: How To Keep A Spiritual Journal [print this page] Many people are uncomfortable about keeping a spiritual journal. Often, fear, timidity, lack of discipline and a belief that one's voice is not worth being heard will discourage the spiritual journaler. Fear, timidity, discipline and voice are the four Spiritual Journaling Busters. This article will break down these four Journaling Busters and open you up to the possibility that spiritual journaling could be for you.
Spiritual Journaling Buster number one is fear. Getting started on sharing your spiritual story can be intimidating. You might ask questions like, "What materials do I need, what are the rules and what words should I write on that very first page?" Fear of journaling centers mostly around the details of getting started. The truth about spiritual journal writing is that there are no rules! Use a notebook, a sketchbook or a 3 ring binder. Write with pen, pencil or colored pencils. Document a memory, describe a dream, share a feeling, or list your hopes and dreams. One of the most freeing aspects of keeping a spiritual journal is that there are no rules. You have found a place where you can do, write and think whatever you want and it's absolutely nobody's business. Where else can you go and find this much freedom?
Spiritual Journaling Buster number two is timidity. Putting down those first few words takes guts. First time journalers often feel a bit shy. Timidity often stems from inexperience. The voices inside your head may say, "You are not a good writer, stick with what you know, or do something else that you're better at." The truth is these voices speak lies. Journaling is not about being good at writing or becoming good at writing. Keeping a spiritual journal is about being good at being you. Share as you would share: in your style, with your ability and with your unique abilities. No need to be timid. Unless you choose otherwise, what you write stays between you and God so have courage and share!
Spiritual Journaling Buster number three is discipline. It is widely believed that you need discipline for journaling. Attitudes like, "I have to write every day with perfect grammar, handwriting and punctuation," discourage those considering keeping a spiritual journal. In reality, these expectations are yours and yours alone. No one is grading you or judging you but you. Free yourself from all the "shoulds" and use your spiritual journal however, whenever and wherever you'd like. Enjoy the benefits of having a place where there are no rules.
Spiritual Journaling Buster number four is voice. Do you believe your voice is not worth hearing even when the only person listening is you? You have a right to find a voice for your soul. Don't let your feelings remain so private that you can't find space to share them. A spiritual journal can become your place to find hope, peace and God given insight. Please pick up a pen and find a place to place your heart. Don't stay locked up and alone. You have a voice that needs to speak. God is listening. Let it be heard.
These four Spiritual Journaling Busters can help break down the barriers that are holding you back from journaling. Each "Journal Buster" is an encouragement to get started. If you find that you still need a little more help putting those first few words on the page, consider doing an internet search for words like "spiritual journal questions." Such a search will bring you to websites filled with journaling prompts to help jump start your writing. You can also find books that are filled with spiritual writing prompts. Dr. June Maffin's recently released book "Soulistry: Artistry of the Soul" is loaded with journal prompts that will motivate and encourage you put the pen to paper. There are endless resources available to help you begin your spiritual journal journey. Search for the one that fits you and get started!
Hopefully, the Spiritual Journaling Busters have busted your excuses for not keeping a spiritual journal. With all your reasons not to begin writing set aside, find something to write in and start writing. Write every day or every month. Use a pen or a pencil. Use capital letters or don't. Edit your writing or let it stay just as it is. Sketch in your journal, write sloppily, and let a few coffee stains decorate the pages. Do whatever you want! And finally, consider the possibility that spiritual journaling could be just for you.
