Jackie Henry
Losing someone we love through death is
one of the most stressful events we will ever endure. The stress takes a toll on our emotions, our bodies, and our health. Journal writing can be a simple and practical way to relieve some of that stress and the problems it brings. I found that writing my thoughts in a journal became a great comfort and companion to me. It will catalog your journey of grief.
Putting words on paper allows us to express our painful feelings rather than stuffing and carrying them around inside of us. We can pour our hearts out in a journal anytime we feel like it. Our journals are always there to receive our thoughts and feelings.
There is no right way to journal. Journaling can start out on a napkin, but you will probably want to purchase a pretty journal. If you are too upset to write anything, just write words and phrases. Explain what you are feeling. Sometimes just to catalog the events of your day helps. Write about the anger. Write about the memories. Write out your prayers to God. Write out scriptures that you are holding onto now.
A grief journal is a valuable tool in the journey of bereavement, and it is also a lasting tribute to the person who has died.
Here are some starters for you:
1. My biggest struggle right now is…
2. The thing that really gets me down is …
3. The worst thing about my loss is…
4. When I feel lonely …
5. The most important thing I’ve learned …
6. I seem to cry most when…
7. I dreamed last night …
8. I heard a song that reminded me of …
9. The experiences I miss the most are …
10. A new hope I found today is …
11. New strengths I have developed since my loss are …
12. A new person I have come to appreciate is …
13. How I leaned on the Lord today is …
14. I am thankful for …
15. A Bible verse that gives hope …
