She connects with core of her being, and pauses briefly to reminisce. She plays with a vivid memory, and more tears come - tears of joy. She pauses again, and I wait.

I grasp every privileged thought and confession. Her emotions rush like unrelenting rivers until she's quiet, still, and at peace.

She whispers, "There's nothing more to say now."

She asks me to remember her most secret longings, to guard them like precious mysteries. Again, I do.

She leaves feeling lighter, at ease, and confident. Will she call him or write to him? I won't ever ask, and she will tell me when time is right.

Sometimes I wish I could feel emotions like she does, and tell her what to say that would make everything alright. But I will not interfere.

I have no delicate heart like hers - only a large and finite memory to preserve her most endeared treasures.

I'm simply her computer, a faithful ear in early morning hours when she pours out her soul through my keyboard - a precious gift from heart of a friend.

Journaling Allows Us to Express Ourselves Without Judgment

Journaling provides a forum where we can express ourselves fully and completely. If we approach this honestly, a journal can become a best friend and confidant. It won’t give needless advice, is never too busy to listen, and is always there for you when needed. Acceptance is a quality we all seek , we have a deep drive to find it. The truth is, majority of us seek in others what we cannot give ourselves. Journaling opens up doors to a process of self-acceptance, without which true healing cannot occur.

Journaling Gets Us Organized By keeping a day planner type journal with notes, it is easier to keep track of “to do” lists, as well as record notes each day of our thoughts, feelings, experiences. Mixing “practical” with art of journaling allows us to keep track of everything in one convenient place. Our grocery lists and goal lists, records, and sudden inspirations can be stored electronically in many instances, allowing us instant access with touch of a button. (Just don’t forget to backup ! )

Journaling Enhances Conscious Living

Writing in a journal can have similar effects to meditation, in that it allows us to bring our attention to full and present awareness. This state of awareness shifts our perspective, and allows us to tap into reserves of creative energy. Many find themselves stuck in routines where creative spark can become lost in shuffle of daily grind. When we run on “auto-pilot” we desensitize to other stimuli. Opening up to daily journaling allows us to reflect on unique beauty of present moment, and allows us to experience life more fully.

Journaling Shows Progress At A Glance

The key to staying motivated is usually being able to see progress being made. Journals can provide much-needed encouragement for those working towards life-changing goals. When in doldrums, it’s easy to flip back to beginning to view path of progress, providing momentum and motivation necessary to ensure success. Journaling can be a great tool for instant-gratification junkie in all of us.

All of these are examples of many ways that journaling can provide necessary tools for personal empowerment. Journaling is a wonderful journey in self-discovery. I hope this inspires others to take this self-healing challenge, pick up that pen or sit at keyboard, and make a commitment to enrich life through healing power of words.

In remainder of this series, I will cover keys to successful journaling as well as different journaling techniques. I will show how anyone can use journaling as a tool for transformation.