I first learned of Morning Pages from the book The Creative Call, by Janice Elsheimer. (Janice credits Julia Cameron, author of The Artist’s Way for this idea.) Initially, I wondered what could be written on pages that I wouldn’t pen in my prayer journal, but I soon learned each has their own place.
When journaling prayers, I write directly to my heavenly Father. The simple act of putting pen to paper helps me stay focused on Him, not the blaring buzz of the dryer. Some days my words skim the surface like a skier on slick water. Other times, they wear wetsuits, delving deeply into corners of my life. Regardless, thought is required, as is true for any prayer time.
Morning Pages, at least for me, is the opposite as it provides an outlet for something that doesn’t come easy for me—free writing. No checking grammar, thinking it through or searching for “just the right word” with these pages. It’s simply putting pen to paper and writing whatever comes to mind.
Nicky Hajal refers to this process as “Slicing the Brain Loops” in his top-notch post, 5 Reasons Why You Should Write Morning Pages – Right Now!:
“Have you noticed that when something is on
your mind you seem to go over it again and again and again? You think
through the same dreaded scenario over and over and just can’t shake it
off. On the contrary, each go around reinforces the pattern.
I call these brain loops and they’re devastating to actually
accomplishing important tasks. They’re energy being spent, taking you no
where – like revving a car while it’s still in park.
I can’t explain it but the moment you take a thought and type it out,
it simply feels wrong to loop through that thought process again. Your
brain moves onto other things, either probing further into whatever that
loop was about or considering more important subjects.”
Morning Pages isn’t just for writers or creative thinkers. “Dumping” thoughts on a few pages each day is helpful in clearing the mind for a productive day.
Oddly enough, I plan to shift my Morning Pages to Evening Pages for a while. I think a clear mind is a restful one, and I need all the rest I can get these days.
You can use a journal, notebook, or loose-leaf paper. There’s an advantage in writing longhand but if for whatever reason you’re unable to do so, type away! I made a special trip to Target, visited my favorite department (office supplies), and chose an inspiring 1-1/2″ binder by Pink Chandelier. How could I not be inspired by a name like that?
So, here’s the challenge! Beginning Monday, June 16th, would you be willing to give Morning Pages a try for two weeks? Simply leave a comment on this post letting me know you’re in! Then, jump in with both feet next Monday, jotting down any positive things you learn about Morning Pages along the way. Email those to me on June 30th and I’ll feature them in my July 3rd post.
I’ll also enter the names of those who email their insights on June 30th into a drawing for something you’re sure to enjoy on your Morning Pages journey.
Who’s in?
Today is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24
5 Reasons Why You Should Start Writing Morning Pages – Right Now!
by Nicky Hajal
“For years I’ve wanted to write daily but been unable to. The proof is 5 or 6 journals filled with just a single entry. Then, I came across Morning pages in The Artists’ Way, by Julia Cameron. The idea is to wake up and immediately write three pages about anything, simply transcribing your thoughts.Their purpose is not to be shared with
others or even reread by yourself but simply to create awareness and to
free your mind of all the chatter. They work incredibly well and have had a huge impact on me since I started consistently writing in December. I know you have a ton of things to accomplish and I want you to accomplish them. That’s why I want you to write morning pages. But before I go into the how of getting into morning pages (next post) I want to go more deeply into the why.” To read the article in its entirety, click here.
Honey Soy Pork Tenderloin, by Robyn Stone @ Add A Pinch
This has become a go-to favorite for these empty nesters! The aroma alone should require Weight Watcher points. It’s very simple and anything in a crock pot grabs my attention. Add the crock pot liner and you’ll also have an easy clean up. Add Jasmine Rice and a veggie. Voila! I’d love to know what you think when you give it a try.
This recipe is a favorite, but so is Robyn’s site, Add A Pinch. It’s filled with great recipes, travel tips, homeschooling ideas and much more. Enjoy!
Do you spend time trying to earn approval from others? From God? Jennifer Dukes Lee Love Idol was recently released and I can’t wait to get my hands on it. You know if Susan Stilwell promotes it, the book is slam full of truth with little fluff. My kind of book! I’m considering trying an online study group for Love Idol this summer via Google Hangout. If you might be interested, leave a comment on the blog and stay tuned!
Studying God’s Word, eating healthy, spending time/money wisely and spiffing up our skills all enhance the fragrance we have to offer each other and the world. Don’t you agree?
So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom.
Reading. A true summer delight! In celebration of Read-A-Book Day, here are five of my recent, and not so recent, faves:
1. The Book. No other book was breathed into existence by a living and active God. Here are 23 creative reading plans.
2. Ordering Your Private World, Gordon MacDonald. Many books are written about organizing our time and schedules but this book focuses on maintaining spiritual order within. It’s a classic that’s sat on my shelves for years. I’m reading it now for the fourth time. (I’m a slow learner.)
3. Carolina Reckoning, a NEW release by my friend and gifted author, Lisa Carter. I plan to pick up a copy at her book signing on Saturday, October 19, from 10-12 noon at LifeWay Christian Supply on Haywood Road, Greenville SC. If you live in upstate SC, please plan to stop by!
4. For my poet friends…Poemcrazy, by Susan Goldsmith Wooldridge. It’s filled with ideas, techniques, and inspiration.
5. The Creative Call, by Janice Elsheimer. I know, I know. I’ve mentioned this book more than once in the past, but it’s THAT good. It can be read/studied as a bible study — something I’m praying about leading in 2014.
Now it’s your turn. What book will you read in celebration of Read-A-Book Day?
If forced to get rid of all but five of my writing books, The Creative Call, An Artist’s Response to the Call of the Spirit would be one of five.
It’s a practical and insightful workbook with eight weeks of material, plus a bonus retreat guide for group or individual use. Janice Elsheimer helps writers learn how to recognize, develop, and respond to God’s creative call as we grow in our relationship with Him.
Did you know…J. S. Bach regularly inscribed the beginning of his scores with the letters J.J., which stood for the Latin “Jesu, Juva,” or “Jesus, help.” At the end of a composition, he often wrote S.D.G. for “Soli Deo Gloria,” or “To God alone the glory.”
With Scripture, wise quotes, and tidbits of Bach-type stories peppered throughout the book there were many “Wow!” moments, to say the least.
Yep. It’s a keeper and a favorite for sure.
Cathy Baker
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