Let’s Start Journaling

Often we do not know what we need to say and we sit thinking, to the point that we just give up on ever writing about our grief, our self-talk turns into “it is too difficult to think about my grief, now I need to write about it as well and I don’t know where to start with it”.

 And often we don’t know what to write…until we begin – the act of writing helps us to know what it is that we need to say.  Still each of us needs to find a place to begin our story.  Where should you begin? Where each of us will begin will be different, and it’s important to honor that difference in ourselves. There is no “set pattern” to follow to get it right. 

 First, find a place you can get quiet and relax. When you are ready, and if you are comfortable doing so, close your eyes.  Let your body relax; take a few deep breaths in and out and become comfortable where you are sitting.

 At this point, some invite into their mind images or a series of photographs, and settle on just one. When you are ready begin writing with this phrase “In this picture you are…..” Write as though you are speaking directly to someone. 

Remember: this is only a suggestion. You can begin your writing in anyway you want.

You may wish to use a quote to being your writing:

“I miss you…” “This is something I could never tell you…”   

You may wish to write a good bye letter, or a letter remembering your loved one. In your good bye letter be sure you mention in the letter that your loved one died.

Example:

I remember grandpa, how he walked into a room and commanded your respect without speaking a word. I remember his wit and Godly wisdom and knowledge. I remember his love of God and his compassion for others.

I remember that he died.

I remember my best friend Todd, his outstanding knowledge of special effects. I remember his love for the theater and stage.  I remember his humor, his laughter. I remember how he reacted when he was afraid and how he would get even with others that tricked him. I remember how he would always fix that which couldn’t be fixed.  I also remember that he died.

You may wish to write about who you are at different times and how you grieve in each role.

I am Chris, the husband and I feel…

I am the Chaplain and I grieve like….

I am the Counselor and it hurts….

I am the Teacher and I don’t understand…

I am Father and I feel afraid….

Grandfather and I now fear because of….

Uncle…

Brother…

Friend…

Pastor…

Husband…