There are many opportunities in any given day to journal what we notice. Yet, we don’t just journal – we live life – and then return to the pages to capture all that we are learning and all that is being given for our continued growth. Through the practice of journaling, we can explore, reframe and deeply savor our experiences, thus integrating them more fully in our lives. We listen for the still small voice as we explore our dreams, longings, and values. A journaling practice ultimately stretches us beyond our known limitations and capabilities. We become more vulnerable and honest. Using the journaling process as a spiritual tool, we come to be more in touch with our true self – the part of us that is willing to grow and be changed. Journaling as a Spiritual Path is a book for everyone who desires to journal. As you step onto the path, it’s best to come as you are and do as you feel led. There is no right or wrong way to journal. Your encounter with the mystery of your own being, while at the same time encountering a compassionate Mystery beyond yourself, will provide the inspiration required for the journey. In many ways, journaling is about pilgrimage because it is a journey to the inner self. There are vast places in each of us which we are not yet aware, as well as the parts of ourselves that we know well. Yet journaling, in many ways, provides a chance to meet the unacquainted stranger within us, as well as to reconnect with the person we have always been. Chapter 1 suggests ways to set our intentions and create rituals that not only support our journaling practice, but invite us on the journey of self-discovery and divine connection. Chapter 2 describes the importance of finding our metaphors on the spiritual journey. Besides developing a creative way of thinking, metaphor eases the soul into a deeper understanding of our ourselves and our lives. Chapter 3 tackles the sticking points and challenges that keep us stuck, yet which also provide opportunities that are likely to yield profound wisdom for each of us. Chapter 4 underscores the importance of creativity in our lives and provides suggestions for finding our creative pursuits, as we delve more deeply into the soul work of journaling. Chapter 5 focuses on contemplative journaling as a result of our day-to-day experiences, as it supports the healing of our wounds, the feeding of our souls, and the deepening of our journey to the divine and the true self. The author reflects on the many aspects of our humanity and spirituality, providing examples from her life experiences while encouraging her readers to cross the bridge into their own lives. Throughout the book, she invites readers to engage in Meditations written by beloved spiritual authors, to respond to Questions for Journaling around the topics presented, and to weave Exercises into their daily lives that may be pathways to a more authentic spiritual experience. This beautifully written book by Jo-Ellen A. Darling is a treasury of wise teaching. Interweaving story, reflections, writing exercises and excellent journal prompts and questions, it is filled with sound, practical suggestions and help for tending wounds and writing your way to the "truth of your own self." Go slow, Darling advises. I concur. Her honest, hopeful examples are filled with life lessons and gentle encouragement for your own journey. "Being in a state of unknowing," she writes, "isn't the same as losing your way." This book is a gold mine. PAULA D'ARCY, author of Stars at Night and Waking Up to This Day "If you've been in the desert with your journaling practice, this book is just the oasis you're searching for. Leaving no stone unturned, Journaling as a Spiritual Path will be a boon to the novice as well as the seasoned spiritual traveler. This book is pure journaling genius!" CATHERINE CAMPANARO, Celebrant, Spiritual Director, Drum Circle Facilitator and Retreat Leader As I move into the latter stages of life, I wish I had a better recollection of my significant experiences. Now that I'm journaling, I'm eager to share my experiences with my children and grandchildren. Jo-Ellen shares her personal journey and provides exercises and questions that have led me to deeper insights as to who I truly am. In my journaling, I find a greater love for others, for self, for all of creation, and the Creator of all." GEORGE MAUNZ, M.A.