Journal Thursday

Imagine writing your own song or poem. What would be the theme? What would you include in it? Who would it be for? For a song, what would the genre be?

Now take a moment and imagine yourself writing your song or poem.

Now....let it flow.


Option....
If this is too difficult for you, then pick a song or poem you really enjoy. Then write about what makes it special for you.

Patience in the Healing Process

In our crazed and hectic society where information and feedback are instantaneous, somehow certain changes can be slow and frustrating. When it comes to our mental health, patience is the last thing we want especially when we are in emotional, mental or relational pain. We want answers and we want them now. But that ol' phrase that is like fingernails down the chalkboard, "It didn't take ya overnight to get in this mess, and it won't take ya overnight to get out of it" seems to ring out. Why? Because there are certain things in life that take time.

For example, if you have had a broken bone, you've probably anticipated a few weeks for it to heal. If you've planted some flowers, fruits or vegetables, you have expected a few weeks more for them to grow and then be ready to enjoy. However, when life takes an unexpected turn, how do we figure getting all the pieces back together or the length of time to get back to how things were if in fact they ever do?

This is where seeking assistance (whether human, divine or both), seeking social support, with courage and patience in the restorative process are key in overcoming these things. Your well being is of great value and taking the time to restore your relational, mental and emotional health matter. Time? Sacrifice? Yes, but you are well worth it! Think about the broken bone or the seeds you plant. If you did nothing, what would the results be? Your body in general has healing capabilities, rain falls to the ground to water the plants, but with proper care, healthy attention with endurance and strength, healing and growth can transpire.

Take the time for you...you matter!

Journal Thursday

Journaling has become a big part of our world over the past few years and especially at the introduction the web log and then the internet social networks. Many people put whatever thoughts come to mind on their blogs, or Facebook or MySpace, or Twitter, or in texting on the mobile phone. But what about the private world? Do you have one?I believe even in the midst of social networking there are parts of our beings we do not share and are not forthcoming with.

With that said, take a moment and answer the question below. Give yourself the time you need to think through your answer...then journal.

What defines the mystery of being you...uniquely you?

Enjoy the Weather

If you have been running of late and spending much of your time inside, then might I suggest a refresher to the great outdoors. Getting a few minutes of walking in the sunshine can really help reset your mental focus and attitude.

Consider going outside to a park, ride your bike or go for a hike. Plan on enjoying the beautiful Autumn weather:)...it will be well worth your time and sense of well-being! And while you are at it, invite a friend to go with you or go with a friend or two on their outdoor adventure.

Another Manic Monday???

It was the song Manic Monday that caught my attention one day as I heard it again. Playing in my head wishing Monday was not today. My Sunday yesterday was long and I needed another "Sunday" to recharge.

As I reflect for a moment, we all have Mondays...days we wish didn't come or would only be around once in a blue moon. Maybe it's the day that tells us to slow down and clear our crazy, hectic lives and focus on what really matters. I find myself dragging at times not wishing that a day like today has occurred in my life...but it's days like Monday that reminds me to take time for the pain to be felt, energy to regain and reassert again that this too will pass and somehow is meant to be.

Journal Thursday

Imagine doing something you have always wanted to learn how to do but for some reason have not got around to learning it...whether skate boarding, playing in a rock band, skydiving, playing for the NFL, being a dancer, or ??? Now, get in a comfortable spot at home and close your eyes and let your imagination play out that very thing.

After your imaginative activity, journal about it.

Journal Thursday

Journaling is a creative, fun, insightful, and thought provoking tool that many counselors use to assist their clients in discovering, clarifying, and validating a number of things from the past, present and future thoughts, feelings, actions, attitude, perspective, etc. of the client.

With this stated, take a moment and identify an early childhood memory of a place where you found as a safe place to play. Now, imagine yourself for a moment being there. Go ahead...get in a comfortable chair, close your eyes, have a quiet low lite room, no distractions and imagine. What are the surroundings? What do you see? Hear? Smell? What do you feel? A breeze? Sunshine? What feelings are going on inside you as you are there? What are you doing? Are there others with you?

Now go ahead and journal a few lines about how it felt for you to travel back in time to that childhood place.

Do you have a place to go to today for a moment of safe, fun play?

Attitude Choices

One day I was busy in my office preparing for a meeting when a salesman entered the front door. He had that salesman look and a catalog in his hand. He stated his name, his business and if I needed his product. I was a bit short with him and I didn't want what he was selling and neither his free catalog he offered. I hurried him out the door. I was pissed off. I was in the middle of thought and preparation when this guy shows up peddling his product. The gall.

Later, I reflected as to why I was so upset and what I could have done differently. Well, there is a sign on the office door saying "No Solicitors", I was in the middle of something, and I didn't need what he was selling. So yeah, I was rude and yet for good reason. Though I had been offended by this guy I realized my choice of action was returning rudeness toward some guy who ignored my office sign and just went about trying to do his job. More anguish for me then I needed.

So I reflect and realize I had a choice as to how I was going to respond and to what degree this guy and situation was to get to me. What choices are you facing? Are others annoying you or just have little boundaries with you? What are your responses to them? What attitude will you choose with those who are offensive?

Joel

Journal Thursday

Imagine having the ability of going back in time. Which era would you travel to and why. Consider contributions you would make, people you would meet and so on.
Have fun, be creative!