START A JOURNAL
from Finding Your Way After Your Spouse Dies

It began in the hospital room where my Loved One was dying -- the outpouring of my feelings on paper. Sometimes the words wrote themselves, so urgent was the need for expression! Parts were difficult to read later- where tears had mingled with the words, and yet, journal writing was the most helpful thing I did in my journey through grief.


Are you writing your thoughts and feelings? If not, I urge you to begin. A spiral notebook works well. Keep it in a special place, where it is easily accessible. Write anything that enters your mind. Put the date and time before each entry, to cast it in reality. Write only for yourself – although you can always choose to share parts of your journal later.

Worries can get stuck, going around and around in your head, with no escape. Writing them down can allow you to let go of these anxious thoughts. Also take time to write about the good things. There are times when you have taken control, jobs you have completed. Record any progress you have made, however small. A problem you can’t solve? Put it here, leave it, and come back later - perhaps to find an answer waiting for you. Friends are not accessible at every moment. Your journal can be your "instant friend," always there to "hear" your grief, your pain, and your plans.

Finally, writing in your journal is a good way to close the day. What happened today? How did I feel? What was the worst today? The best? Is there something I want to remember for tomorrow? Something I need to do? Write it all down, and feel the release that writing can give.

Dear God, Even closer than my journal, you are with me always. You are reading over my shoulder as I pour out my thoughts and feelings. Accept these outpourings as part of me. I rest myself in you.....Amen.


Scripture Passages for Reflection:

Psalm 55: 22
Romans 5:1-5


Click on the links below to read the chapters:

NOBODY'S HOMELET NATURE HEAL
(Grief Expressed)(Finding Your Way)

WHERE ARE THE FRIENDS?START A JOURNAL
(Grief Expressed)(Finding Your Way)
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