In order not to repeat past events we study them. But do we study our day so that we don't repeat certain experiences again? Usually not. What if you asked: "What occurred in today’s events that seem out of ordinary?" "What messages appeared that were quickly tossed that were spiritually based and could have additional meaning?"

For this very reason, not to repeat our mistakes and to improve our future that we should stop and ask. Throughout history we've been told: "An answer cannot be received, until first we ask." I know this last sentence must be a quote from somewhere but I couldn't find source.

Do you read material that spiritually enlightens you? A great exercise is to journal before you read material. This will allow your soul to reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit and enhance reading.

What about journaling after or during reading? Writing allows meshing of thoughts -- authors, yours, and higher power. It is a powerful connection. It is best way we can begin to see our path and our purpose.

Dear Higher Power letters are my favorite. I feel like I'm talking with my best friend and trusted father When was last time you wrote to him or her?

Many people tell me they only journal when they need to dump their negative emotions. Yes, journaling can be a great use for this, however, journaling is actually so much more. If you do find that your entries are more focused on negative aspects of life, I highly suggest you change it. Since like attracts like, you are opening opportunity to universe to send exact type of energy back to you. And who wants more negative energy in their life?

If you must post journal entries that are negative, let me suggest that you don't stop there. Continue writing flipping to positive side. This maybe difficult at first but as it changes so will your attitude about life.

Normally, people who don't journal often tell me that they don't do so because it is always negative. Who wants to return to something that is negative? I surely would not.

Copyright, Catherine Franz. All rights reserved.

There isn't really a secret formula for writing a good song because determining what is "good" is subjective and a matter of personal opinion (some great songs have broken all so-called "rules"). However, many successful songwriters have used following format to write a "Hit" song:

INTRO: Approximately 4-8 measures of instrumental music that contains part or all of "the hook" (a part of melody that is easy to remember).

VERSE: Each verse should be written in such a way as to "set up" chorus. Try to keep meter of your song even by matching syllables of your words. Be consistent with sentences that rhyme. Verses should create an anticipation of fulfillfment.

CHORUS: This is where you make your statement. Stress most important part of your song and make it tasty. Think of your chorus or "hook" as being like icing on a cake. You want your words to be worth remembering.

VERSE: Continue to follow idea of your song all way through, don't get side-tracked!

CHORUS: This is where you have opportunity to repeat your "hook" which should continue to emphasize your songs main theme.

BRIDGE: This is where you can create some interest and tension by changing your melody line, modulating to a different key, or adding an instrumental guitar part, etc. Don't make it too long, approximately 8 measures or so. It should build or crescendo to final chorus.

FADE CHORUS: This is generally same as your first chorus, but you will end by repeating it over and over, then gradually fade out to end your song. Use your "hook" generously, but don't over-kill!

Be flexible and use your imagination! Don't just copy or mimic what is currently popular. Remember that some of biggest names in music business made it to top because they were not afraid to be ORIGINAL or have a different sound. So, experiment, be yourself, and most of all- have fun!