Writing for My Life

2020 October Blog by Mike Reiling ~

When I retired from teaching in 2014, I chose journaling as a regular life practice for myself, a practice I had done intermittently since 1975. I had also used journaling techniques with students in many of my theology courses. I decided to study personal journaling, put my pen on a page, and see where it led me.

It struck me that we mostly associate writing as work, something to do to accomplish tasks.  We don’t see writing as pleasureful. I realized that journal writing was stimulating, interesting and…fun!

The act of writing – putting pen to paper – focuses the mind and heart like nothing else.  Often when I just sat and tried to think or pray about something important, I noticed my mind jumping all over the place. I found that searching for expressive words to use moved scrambled thoughts and mixed feelings into more order and clarity.

Journaling noticeably aided me in attending to the flow of my life, its important moments and its meaning. And, I had a record of my thoughts and feelings that I could look back at and learn from.

I found that my journaling could be poetic and creative. Journaling aided problem -solving. I noted that some journalers described writing as confiding with a best friend. A lot of research says it has definite therapeutic value.

Finally, I found writing can be prayer. My mind and heart are focused on the Holy. Writing has become my way to pray.

Throughout October and November, I am leading a journaling circle on Sunday nights sponsored by Centering Space. You can explore writing through the support of a group. Join us at any time!  Pick up a pen anytime and write for your life!