Silence…almost.

The scratching of pen on paper, the sound of thoughts recorded. These are favorite times. When my world is quiet and the mind can finally rest. When all thoughts are placed on the safety of paper.

I have journaled since I was about 10 years old (oh how embarassing it is to read those! They generally stay closed) sometimes regularily, often sporadic. But when something big is happening in my life, or when I can’t seem to regulate the thoughts in my head, journaling is the only thing that seems to give me peace.

It’s also the best way I can connect with God. To put prayers on paper means that my prayers actually finish themselves instead of being distracted by another thought, another “to-do”.

A few months ago, I came across this post by one of my favorite bloggers, Ann Voskamp. I think it’s safe to say that it has changed the way I do “quiet times”.

God, hear me saying…
God, I hear you say…

Listening to the voice of my Maker, my Lover…

has brought healing,

has challenged me,

has sent me on paths I’m not sure I’m strong enough to follow.

But always with the assurance of His presence beside me. As long as I’m listening to His voice, fear can’t overtake me.

I also try to journal at least 5 things I’m thankful for. I number them consecutively (I think I’m on 156 right now) so I can see that these are only a few of the many gifts God has blessed me with.

I wish I could say I journal every day. I don’t. But I know the times I do this excercise, my time with God is richer than any other.