My best friend in the whole world is an amazing artist. She was the ripe old age of 4 years old when I met her. I was 16. We hit it off straight away, and from that day on she has been the most wonderful friend and confidant one could ever wish to have. I love her dearly.
For the sake of this story (which is true by the way) I will call her "Flossie". When Flossie was a teenager, she was very troubled. There were many times that Flossie would stay with me and my young family and we would have lots of wonderful times. There were also many trying times because Flossie was troubled, so we would have lots of deep and meaningful conversations and lots crying and hugging went on.
One day in the midst of all this, I said to Flossie......"When you feel down and troubled and lonely, write you feelings in a book or on a piece of paper. It doesn't matter if you keep it hidden somewhere or just throw it out.....the fact is, if you write it down, you get it out of your head just a little. Then it lightens the load and you will feel that little bit better for it."
Well, that all happened a few too many years ago than I care to remember. Flossie and I are still very close and she has a beautiful family of her own now. Over the years, I have had my fair share of challenging times to say the least and as always Flossie was there with me....listening to me and holding my hand. We have cried many tears together and been there for each other always.
On one occasion, she reminded me of what I had said to her all those years ago. From that day I have kept a journal....well actually many journals. I have a couple that are pretty scary for the dark times and lots more for happy thoughts and some for the crazy adventures I seem to find myself on.
I absolutely love my journals and wouldn't part with them for anything.
It is fun looking back at them also.
The best thing is, I have finally stopped being really 'precious' about my journals and I am not afraid to make mistakes or make a mess. Because after all, they are my journals and it doesn't matter if they are messy or real or scary. They are unique to me.
They are the best and the cheapest therapy I know!
