The newsletter is the perfect place to express feelings locked inside, sort out my worries, and determine my next steps. I’ve not moved on entirely, but I’ve certainly moved forward.
Thank you for another insightful and heartfelt post Janice. I too found journaling to be a lifesaver, especially during times of extreme illness, being new in a foreign country, without family support. My journal became my companion and in a strange way, allowed me to access some inner wisdom that I didn't know existed. I'm a huge fan of this practice. Thanks again for highlighting the importance of this wonderful tool. 🙏🏼
I’m 78 and a recent widower after 51 years. I’ve gotten a lot of advice to start journaling my grief, but I’m resistant. I’ve never journaled in my life. Any suggestions from the group about how to start?
My journal is on the computer but it could be a special notebook. Each night I write down my thoughts -what I did today or plan to do tomorrow, what I miss, maybe a special memory. Whatever comes to mind - for as long as I need to. But journaling is a strong habit with me, I've been doing it for probably 20 years.
You might start by writing what you did during the day , but also honor the resistance - maybe you aren't ready to journal - yet.
Hi Jonathan, I'm sorry to hear about the death of your partner of 51 years. I cannot imagine what that must feel like. if I may offer a suggestion re journalling, start small and slowly. I started journalling in 2007 after I became very sick and writing in my little book became a life saver. The person who recommended this process suggested starting with taking a moment to get centred, eg: eyes closed and a few deep breaths, and then write anything that comes to mind. If nothing comes or you're struggling to express how you're feeling, then she suggested writing about the weather, or what you plan to do with your day. The content isn't important to start with. It's just starting the writing process. You'll find with time that thoughts/feelings that have been dormant, even buried will start to surface and then, like me, you' won't be able to stop. 😁 I hope this is of some help. Best of luck.
My heartfelt condolences, Jonathan. Janice and Silvana have offered great advice.
May I suggest that you write a few words about how you're feeling when you listen to music, read an article, or see something during your day? Find words that hold meaning for you. They don't have to be complete sentences. Sometimes, living in that moment can help you ease into a rhythm and format that resonates and feels right for you.
Megan Devine has a great book on grief 'It's ok that you're not ok'
"It's a practice that requires a commitment to vulnerability, transparency, and reflection." Especially vulnerable when the writing leaves our journal and is sent out into the world. We can only pray that the ears that receive it can understand it and learn from it or be entertained by it. So far so good, Janice.
I'm very glad you're here writing, Janice. xo Thank you for what you do to share insights and wisdom, especially for caregivers. And of course I love your little cartoons ;-) Wowser 271 articles! Congrats! Journalling has kept me sane since 2015. Crystallising thoughts, putting 'Yuck' into words and also capturing precious moments. Whatever the weird emotion on inner-sight, I've managed to express it outside myself. Still curious, still learning.
Hi Victoria, I so agree. It seems like I can view it from a different perspective once it's out in the open. Another way to do it is to draw it -whatever it is that comes to mind in whatever color. That has worked for me as well - new insights, new ideas seem to speak through the drawing.
Ohhhh YES, from feeling to direct expression in a sketch, or music...I don't play the piano as much as I used to or draw as much, for me I need more dedicated time to create/compose. So, journalling is my goto and freeflow poetry. xo
The newsletter is the perfect place to express feelings locked inside, sort out my worries, and determine my next steps. I’ve not moved on entirely, but I’ve certainly moved forward.
A nice edition, Janice! Our interview is scheduled for this week, either Thursday or Friday. I will let you know which day, though by email!
Thanks Chris.
Thank you for another insightful and heartfelt post Janice. I too found journaling to be a lifesaver, especially during times of extreme illness, being new in a foreign country, without family support. My journal became my companion and in a strange way, allowed me to access some inner wisdom that I didn't know existed. I'm a huge fan of this practice. Thanks again for highlighting the importance of this wonderful tool. 🙏🏼
Hi Silvana, I know about that inner wisdom - it's interesting how writing allows access.
Yes it is Janice. I think there is something magical about writing by hand too. Seems to bypass the conscious mind. Often a good thing. 😁
Wow, 1,350! Congrats on the progress, Janice!
I’m 78 and a recent widower after 51 years. I’ve gotten a lot of advice to start journaling my grief, but I’m resistant. I’ve never journaled in my life. Any suggestions from the group about how to start?
Hi Jonathon . . .it's not an easy time is it?
My journal is on the computer but it could be a special notebook. Each night I write down my thoughts -what I did today or plan to do tomorrow, what I miss, maybe a special memory. Whatever comes to mind - for as long as I need to. But journaling is a strong habit with me, I've been doing it for probably 20 years.
You might start by writing what you did during the day , but also honor the resistance - maybe you aren't ready to journal - yet.
Hi Jonathan, I'm sorry to hear about the death of your partner of 51 years. I cannot imagine what that must feel like. if I may offer a suggestion re journalling, start small and slowly. I started journalling in 2007 after I became very sick and writing in my little book became a life saver. The person who recommended this process suggested starting with taking a moment to get centred, eg: eyes closed and a few deep breaths, and then write anything that comes to mind. If nothing comes or you're struggling to express how you're feeling, then she suggested writing about the weather, or what you plan to do with your day. The content isn't important to start with. It's just starting the writing process. You'll find with time that thoughts/feelings that have been dormant, even buried will start to surface and then, like me, you' won't be able to stop. 😁 I hope this is of some help. Best of luck.
My heartfelt condolences, Jonathan. Janice and Silvana have offered great advice.
May I suggest that you write a few words about how you're feeling when you listen to music, read an article, or see something during your day? Find words that hold meaning for you. They don't have to be complete sentences. Sometimes, living in that moment can help you ease into a rhythm and format that resonates and feels right for you.
Megan Devine has a great book on grief 'It's ok that you're not ok'
"It's a practice that requires a commitment to vulnerability, transparency, and reflection." Especially vulnerable when the writing leaves our journal and is sent out into the world. We can only pray that the ears that receive it can understand it and learn from it or be entertained by it. So far so good, Janice.
Hi Sharron, That is so true.
Glad you decided to start!
Hi Nancy, Me, too!!
I'm very glad you're here writing, Janice. xo Thank you for what you do to share insights and wisdom, especially for caregivers. And of course I love your little cartoons ;-) Wowser 271 articles! Congrats! Journalling has kept me sane since 2015. Crystallising thoughts, putting 'Yuck' into words and also capturing precious moments. Whatever the weird emotion on inner-sight, I've managed to express it outside myself. Still curious, still learning.
Hi Victoria, I so agree. It seems like I can view it from a different perspective once it's out in the open. Another way to do it is to draw it -whatever it is that comes to mind in whatever color. That has worked for me as well - new insights, new ideas seem to speak through the drawing.
Ohhhh YES, from feeling to direct expression in a sketch, or music...I don't play the piano as much as I used to or draw as much, for me I need more dedicated time to create/compose. So, journalling is my goto and freeflow poetry. xo