Reflections on Diary Keeping: A Personal Journey
When I was younger, from age 22 to 32, I was a committed diary keeper, making entries almost every night. These days, however, my approach is less rigorous, but no less meaningful. In this article, we delve into the world of diary keeping and explore the extensive nature of personal reflection.
The Early Years: Untapped Commitment
Diaries have long held a special place in literary history and personal culture. However, I’ve never been one for the daily ritual. Even when someone gifted me a lockable diary as a child, the idea of jotting down every single detail felt more like an imposed chore than a creative outlet. The prospect of committing to such disciplined writing felt burdensome.
The Journaling Experience: Entries and Reflections
Instead of a strict diary, I favored journaling. Entries were never about mundane details but rather about the rich tapestry of my life and the lives of those around me. Whether it was reflections on personal experiences, opinions, or chunks of possible storylines, my journals were a release valve for the anxieties and emotions that swirled within me. I often found that writing was a way to process and find clarity in the chaos of daily life.
The Burning of the Past
One day, in the late seventies during a period of significant personal transition, I burned a bundle of these journals. I did so in the fireplace, a symbolic act that marked a new chapter in my life. While the memories and experiences captured within those pages still linger, they remain locked away, waiting for a day when the stars are aligned—either for the first reading or for reflection in a different light.
The Present and Future of Journaling
Today, journaling is a sporadic act more than a daily ritual. I often turn to my journal when significant moments in my life warrant it, such as the start of a new job or an emotional upheaval, such as a betrayal by a family member. There’s a certain spontaneity and authenticity in these entries that makes them resonate deeply with me. They serve as a repository of my journey, a way of making sense of the highs and lows.
Embracing the Future
Looking to the future, I am open to embracing the practice of diary keeping again. While the ritual of daily writing may suit some, I find that my entries when inspired are more genuine and profound. Perhaps it’s time to pick up where I left off and explore the depths of my own reflections once more. The journey of personal growth is a continuous one, and the act of writing can be a powerful tool in that journey.
Conclusion
Whether it’s a diary or a journal, the act of writing down one’s thoughts and feelings can be a deeply enriching experience. It’s a means of reflecting on the past, making sense of the present, and shaping the future. If you haven’t started your own reflection practice, perhaps now is the time to do so. The stars may not be fully aligned, but the act of writing can be a reminder of the power of introspection and self-discovery.