A blank page lies before me now, undefined, open territory. This white page is open to receive my thoughts and ideas without resistance, questioning, or judgment. A white clay of nothingness that longs for the creative life force to breathe life into existence. A deep yearning for communion between possibility and our human potential. This quest for mutual discovery is what a Journal seeks to offer us.
Ah, but how that blank page can intimidate us. Perhaps, this is because we are quick to listen to the voice of our inner critic that judges and squelches creativity with self-defeating admonishes of caution. On the other hand, our desire for perfection may also prevent some of us from engaging life fully with an adventurous spirit.
I can recall times in college when I had an assignment that required writing a paper. I would procrastinate, for a sundry of reasons. Suddenly, I could not concentrate because my room was messy. I would clean up my living space; even reorganize a closet, do anything other than my assignment. Finally, the pressure of a deadline would cause me to sit down and begin the process. What seems key for any goal is to begin, or as the old Nike slogan proclaimed to “just do it.”
A journal page provides a way to spend time with our most private thoughts in an atmosphere of acceptance. In this space we can sail upon the vast sea of unexplored inner landscapes. What is it about the actual process of journaling that is healing, almost magical? This creative act of writing down our thoughts and feelings forges a more intimate relationship, often with the parts of our selves we have long abandoned. Journaling creates a sacred presence with our most precious self. The one we usually don't make time for or see as especially valuable.
Journaling can provide a meaningful opportunity to reflect and to gain clarity on our life's purpose. Through journaling, we can explore the intricate patterns of our choices as we dream new weavings to life.
I am grateful for this sacred Journal, where we can share our thoughts and Love in expansive ways, traveling instantaneously through cyberspace to greet one another as dear friends and lovers of life.
~liz Sorensen Wessel
Note: ink drawing and watercolor by ~liz
