Mount Carmel Ministries in Alexandria, Minnesota, is credited with suggesting the “TRIP” outline for prayer, which lends itself beautifully to the journaling habit.
• “T” is for listing things for which you are thankful.
• “R” is for recording any regrets you may have.
• “I” is for intercession—recording the names of people you want to remember in prayer and what you want to pray for on their behalf.
• “P” is for planning what you want to accomplish over the next day or week. Keep the list short—no more than six items per day. This will increase your chances of actually accomplishing what you set out to do and that will increase your overall sense of well-being.
Tomorrow: Journaling to prepare for difficult situations
This message was adapted from the “Journaling: Create Your Own Sacred Writings” resource written by Kathryn Haueisen and is available from the Women of the ELCA website.