Conversations With Self

Nothing can make you feel more crazy than suddenly realizing, while journaling, you are writing a conversation with two voices within your mind and these voices are very different and distinct; one with depths of wisdom, the other usually caught up in some earthly squabble.

It was only after reading Elizabeth Gilbert's Eat Pray Love that I came to understand this happens frequently with those who journal. I decided to let this part of my journaling flow, but rather than flow, I focused and much like the "big" dreams when I was a little girl, the conversation didn't happen when I tried to make it.  Only when my mind is focused on the writing is there the possibility the conversation will show up.

Understanding this has created a new type of journaling for me where I not only write, I also listen, honing in on any thoughts that arise from the caverns of my be-ing.  It is a fascinating and most intriguing experience and one that all of us can have.

There was a time, though, when I was caught up in the thought that I can't write until I become a "writer" and with that burden, my journaling was hampered.  My journal has also been violated on more than one occasion - being read without permission.  This, too, can cause journaling to be difficult. I've let go of all that and, as a result, my journaling has blossomed into the flower it is today.

Through my blogs and also in my personal journals (I carry a small Moleskine with me everywhere and keep a spiral notebook at home) I capture whatever pops into my mind for attention. By making note and listening, I draw out a deep connection not only with my world, but also with myself.

A few years back I also discovered Watercolor Journaling and this, too, has greatly enhanced my ability to connect with what lies within, always discovering how that frames my view of what lies with-out.

Can you tell I'm a big fan of journaling?  =)

If you journal, "keep writing." A dear friend once told me this and it was the best advise I've ever received in regards to my journaling efforts. If you don't journal, I would suggest giving it a try.

I'll end with this quote from Plato's Apology:

I realized that it was not by wisdom that poets write their poetry, but by a kind of nature or inspiration, such as you find in seers and prophets; for these also say many beautiful things, but do not know anything of what they say.  (Apology, 22c)