The other day in class I showed a video called “Be Happy,” where stick cartooned figures engaged in activities that produced happiness in themselves and therefore, in the world. In a conscious writing practice, lists play a big role. You can list what you want, and list what you have, and list what you are grateful for having (or not having). The list can take any shape or grow to any length you like. If you’re looking for a way to keep a daily or weekly journal, think of all the types of lists you can make over and over again. Mondays could be your “things I did this weekend” list. Tuesdays could be your “things I’m good at” list. Etc., Etc., since the types of lists and the items that go into making up your lists can change and reconfigure endlessly. Enjoy the healthy, reflective focus that writing practice with lists can bring you. And don’t forget your shopping and chores lists!
2 Sep
gratefulness lists: a healthy writing practice
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Posted by Lacey on September 17, 2010 at 1:49 pm
I like the idea of a gratefulness list. Life can get so busy, hard, stressful, and confusing that you can forget all the good that you have in your life. It’s always good to remind yourself about all the good in your life. Making a list reminds you that during those hard times that your life isn’t as bad as you thought. You may not have everything you want, or you may not be living the perfect life, but you life is always better than someoneelses in some way or another. You may have a job and work your butt off all day and complain about it, but, somewhere, there’s somebody trying to get a job. You may be tired of your mom trying to run your life, but there’s somebody wishing they had a mom to run it for them. It’s easy to forget the Good you have in your life. It’s easy to remember the bad and what you don’t have. It’s easy to complain, it’s not as easy to be grateful for what you have.
Posted by Sarah Halstead on September 18, 2010 at 4:34 am
I remember writing my thoughts down in class after viewing this video. I want to say that by me taking this course has made me be more organized with my thoughts. Im confident at the end of this course I’ll be more comfortable speaking and understanding how to be a good writer.
Posted by Elizabeth Herman on November 7, 2010 at 10:57 pm
I’m so glad to see this comment, Sarah! I hope the class helps you in these ways. It is the reason I am working there in the classroom. See you soon.
Posted by Elizabeth Herman on November 7, 2010 at 11:04 pm
Lacey: That’s so true! Why is it so much easier for our minds to attach to the negative feelings when there is so much that is positive and we can all learn to shift towards gratefulness? Reminders like a regular writing practice can help.