The Value of Monologues
What does it mean to heal oneself through journaling? Do the words have to be exceptional? In one sense they do—healing happens when people yield to honest emotions. Self-healing doesn’t mean performing extraordinary feats or putting on a brave face. In fact, compliance, conformity, self-sacrifice, denial of hostility or anger, and non-expression of emotion seem to be related to poor health. Long-term studies are underway and suggest the personality traits that actively enhance longevity are a sense of meaning and purpose in life, a sense of personal responsibility for one’s health, an ability to express one’s needs and emotions while maintaining a sense of humor.
In his book, Peace, Love & Healing, Dr. Bernie S. Siegel gives many suggestions for ways to stay well or get better if you’re not well to begin with; one of his prescriptions is: “Do things that bring you a sense of fulfillment, joy, and purpose, that validate your worth. See you life as your own creation, and strive to make it a positive one.” If you accept the value of his statement, journaling can help by allowing you to explore your own sense of fulfillment free from outside influences. Writing solely for oneself voices the internal monologues. Write about the best possible outcome for your situation. Don’t worry about whether it is practical or immediately attainable. Assume the role of a scientist and research what works best for you. Put your explorations down on paper or on a computer. Write down the inner ramblings, trust your instincts, and become more aware of what truly makes life worthwhile. No one else can define “joy, truth, or love” for you. Finding the words to express those values is one prescription each of us should write for ourselves.
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