Customer Reviews

Spiritual Journaling: Writing Your Way to Independence

5 star:		(10)
4 star:		(0)
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Though Ms. Johnson's most recent books have been aimed at teens (an those adults who are in relationship in some way with teens), this book (though it has a teen on the cover and several writing entries by teens and young adults) is for spiritual seekers of all ages. Neither is it necessary to be extremely comfortable with the process of writing in general, nor journaling in particular, in order to make use of this book's wisdom. It is so accessible, so rich with visual stimulants, quotes, suggestions, and examples that I would defy anyone to open it to any page and not be inspired to move deeper into themselves, be that through writing, "dreaming," ritual, movement, or seeking connection with others, nature, or All That Is. I have personally used and professionally recommended many spiritual journaling books over the years, and this one brings fresh energy and new life to a rather staid genre. Bravo! Kudos to Ms. Johnson and all of her contributors.

If you wish to find ways to express individuality without being judged, SPIRITUAL JOURNALING is for you: SPIRITUAL JOURNALING: WRITING YOUR WAY TO INDEPENDENCE is written with the young adult in mind - but it's reviewed here because many an adult won't want to miss its message. Its inventive, different journaling techniques use meditations, oracle consultation, visualization rituals and more to aid the writing process, providing a satisfying mix of new age technique and writing advice.

Diane C. Donovan, Editor
California Bookwatch

I loved this book and have used it to assist with stimulating teens who are stymied in self-expression. The material presented in this book is comprehensive and includes more themes and open-ended questions for journaling than I can chronicle. In addition, quotes of famous people are inserted to support the themes of each chapter. The book is an excellent tool to be used for assisting teen to till the soil of their lives and unearth blocked feelings that they have been unable to express or were unaware even existed. In addition, the material is presented with a multi-cultural format that honors our global connectedness. Gift someone with this book or use it as a teaching tool with groups. Adults looking for a way to embark upon a desire to journal their feelings would also benefit from its use.

This book has become one of my "go-to" reference books for self-discovery. Spiritual Journaling: Writing Your Way to Independence benefits adults as well as teens in countless ways. Filled with interesting and thought provoking writing prompts, meditations, and rituals, it invites the reader to delve deeply into one's inner wisdom for guidance. Ms. Johnson's personal stories make the book relatable and believable. She includes wisdom, poetry and quotes from several traditions, ancient and modern. Delightful and irreplaceable book!
-Karen J. Braun, Merrimac, Wisconsin

This book put a whole new spin on the journaling I'd done for so many years and has become a dear, trusting friend. I have given it to many friends and family members of all ages, keeping extra copies on hand for gifts. All of them love it and some even started their own "support circles" using this book as the facilitator.
Ms. Johnson lures you into yourself and your spiritual make-up by offering practices and writing prompts, incorporating her own life experiences as well as those of spiritual adventurers she has touched along the way. The book is loaded with wisdom, practices, and quotes from many traditions.
Above all, Ms. Johnson demonstrates that listening to your intuition, personal stories, and imagination is not New Age, but an Ancient, time-honored means for deepening your spirituality. Pen and paper are simply the vehicle and map for however you choose to find your independence. Spiritual Journaling: Writing Your Way to Independence is a book for anyone, not just teens or those who keep journals. Independence and freedom from our own trappings is something from which we can all benefit and Ms. Johnson has produced a remarkable guide.

This book and author were very inspiring for my entry into actually writing the book I've toyed with for ages. Don't be put off by the teen targeted audience if you're an adult. It is useful for all ages. Many adults didn't receive the encouragement and inspiration to follow their dreams and fully explore themselves. This book provides the impetus for doing that. I believe that journaling is a very mentally healthy tool and helps to keep us grounded, and Julie provides help in getting started.

Bravo, Julie Johnson!

Five stars because:
-It's insightful. This book does NOT talk down to you. Finally, someone who respects writers and seekers of all ages. The author goes deep and helps you do the same. This is not some fluff book. If you want to know more about yourself, no matter how old you are, this is the book for you.

-It's progressive. You start where you are, and you go further. Simple as that. But it's not something I could have done on my own. The exercises and "lessons" are laid out strategically, so you can ease into this, but you don't stay in that place -- you want to move into deeper stuff as you go.

-It's encouraging. I felt respected for being on my path and for being where I am. It's almost like the author is standing on the other side of a divide, encouraging you to come forward, to move more into who you really are.

I recommend this book to people who are ready to delve deeper into who they are and why they're here. It doesn't matter what your background is, because all cultures and religions are represented and respected here. You will never want to put your pen and journal down again!

Ever think there could ever be a work that would help you find peace and yet inspire you to your full potential?
Ever want to know someone who could open the wisdom of God and His creatures from Jesus to Buddha to Nature to Jung in one of the most delightful books possibly ever written?
Lord knows how Ms. Johnson ever did it. Within this book's covers are the most profound and insightful ideas in simple, colorful language. The wisdom and truths are heartwarming, too.
The book is simply a distilled wine of ancient and modern truths to make your heart sing.
A skeptic? Do yourself a huge favor and read the sample pages on this site. You'll then understand why Amazon has such trouble keeping this book in stock and why you'll turn to it again and again for joy and self-healing!
Tom Braunger, writing lab instructor and professional writer

Although this book is a great resource for the young at heart of any age, I am totally impressed with its track record of success with teens. I've been told that young people want to "twitter" and "text" and that we can't engage them without the fast pace of virtual communication. Julie's work shows that if you offer teens something of quality that treats them with respect, they will rise to the occasion and bring their attention and creativity to the table. A great gift for the teens in your life, and a great workbook for youth programming in your community or church.

This book helped me through high school, and has helped me establish a lifelong habit that has opened up worlds of possablilty to me in adulthood. The author's exercises are pointed towards teens and tweens trying to make a mark for themselves in school, but many of the prompts and tidbits of wisdom are timeless and the habit of journaling one of the best you can establish for personal improvement and expression at any age.

If you are interested in a powerful vehicle for personal change and piece of mind as simple as a pen and paper, look no further. Wonderful book!