This is part of an ongoing blog post series called ‘Alchemy Every 10 Days,’ post 2 of 10.
After putting them on the page, I’m no longer pinned by them, pinned to that moment, that feeling, that hurt. With a little distance, they are transformed from a trauma that I’m forced to continually relive into a record of my resilience, which lends me pride and confidence. They become a reminder to my future self: See what you’ve been through. Look at what you survived. And to me, that may be the most useful dialogue—the one I have with my past selves, where I see my own evolution, my own growth and change. —Suleika Jaouad
This quote from chapter 2 in The Book of Alchemy helps me to look at my writing and journaling differently. I’ve always enjoyed writing because it helps me solidify my thoughts, feelings, values, beliefs, and perspectives. But seeing writing as an opportunity to witness my past selves helps me appreciate it even more and recognize how powerful it really is.
I don’t often go back and read my own writings but when I do I can see how much I’ve learned and grown. It’s truly beautiful to see where I was and where I am today. While I don’t have everything figured out and still struggle with things, I can see that I navigate my challenges differently now. When I read the quote above, I can see that it is like I get a chance to witness my own progress.
Interestingly enough, I actually made a video back in December 2024, describing why I love writing because you get an opportunity to see where you were back then and how far you’ve come along (You can see the video here). No wonder the above quote resonated so much with me, because it’s like witnessing yourself through your own writing.
I am so thankful that I’ve discovered writing. It’s truly been one of the most beautiful gifts I’ve uncovered.
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