Are You Empowered By Words?
It’s common knowledge that words are powerful. Whether our words are wise or careless, they have the ability to change our lives. Amanda Enayati, a freelance writer and cancer survivor, recently published an article on CNN.com that solidified this belief. When Enayati was diagnosed with cancer, she channeled her fears and concerns into written form. Her journaling became a haven and ultimately acted as part of the healing process.
Psychologists believe there is a strong correlation between negative experiences and expressive writing. As a young woman, Amanda’s article made me think about my own connection to expressive writing. A tactic I often use is letter writing. If I am upset at someone or worried about something, I will write a letter to whomever or whatever my concern is directed towards. I hardly ever give the “recipient” my letter, but the exercise gives me such a beautiful release from my fears.
For example, when a good friend turned his back on me, I wrote him a detailed letter, explaining each and every reason why I was upset and confused. To my surprise, just writing down my thoughts made me feel better. When my dear friend passed away suddenly, I wrote him a letter too. In it, I found a new level of acceptance and peace of mind.
Expressive writing has been my aid through some hard times. How does writing help you?
Casey Allard, Intern
Words...
Casey,
I appreciate what you have written and the examples you've given. Writing and journaling has helped me tremendously over the years to clarify my thinking, sort through emotions and gain traction when I'm stuck. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks
On the first anniversary of my best friend's death several years ago, a group of us got together to write him letters. We rolled them up, put them in a bottle and threw the bottle into the Long Island Sound. It was an incredibly cathartic experience, especially since he had died suddenly. Thanks for sharing your story. I can really relate.
Sarah