Leralara

by Lara Johnson-Beebe

As a fervent journal writer, the tactile sensation of pen gliding across paper is more than a simple act of recording—it’s a deeply personal ritual.

Each entry serves as a momentary release, a means of unburdening my mind by confiding in the trusted pages of my journal. This immediate catharsis, this liberation from the emotional weight we carry, is in itself a precious reward. Yet, as I’ve come to realize, the true value of my journaling journey unfolds over time, revealing its richness in the most unexpected of moments.

“… the biography of the one foolish person, we know is, in reality, nothing less than the miniature paraphrase of the hundred volumes of the Universal History.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ralph Waldo Emerson, in his essay “Intellect,” speaks to this idea of interconnectedness and growth, though from a slightly different angle. He reflects on how we often fail to recognize the wealth of experience and wisdom we accumulate over our lives, dismissing our histories as tame or inconsequential. Yet, Emerson suggests, as we mature and reflect, we come to realize that our personal narratives are not just fragments of existence but are, in fact, intimately connected to the universal story of humanity.

My journals, those intimate companions of mine, are strewn with messages and insights intended for “Future Lara.” These passages, written in moments of intense emotion or profound reflection, were my way of trying to guide or comfort my future self. And today, as I heed the reminder to revisit those pages, it’s as if a bridge has been formed across time, connecting me back to versions of myself that once were.

In revisiting these entries, I encounter a profound sense of unity—a realization that the person I am today is intricately woven from the experiences, thoughts, and feelings of my past selves. It’s akin to having a long arm stretch out from the pages of my journals, reaching into the present to remind me of where I’ve been, what I’ve felt, and how I’ve grown. This connection spans the chasm of time, linking disparate parts of my existence into a coherent narrative.

Much like Emerson’s notion that our individual experiences echo the broader human condition, the practice of journaling allows me to see my personal history as a microcosm of growth, change, and understanding. Each entry, each message to “Future Lara,” is a testament to the journey of self-discovery and the unbreakable link between past and present.

This process of revisiting my journals is not just an act of reminiscence; it’s an act of unification. It helps me to see the continuity in my own story, to appreciate the depth and richness of my experiences, and to acknowledge the constant evolution of my identity. My journals serve as a mirror, reflecting back to me the myriad ways in which I have navigated life’s complexities, learned from my encounters, and grown into the person I am today.

In the end, the act of journaling—and the subsequent journey of revisiting those journals—is a powerful reminder of our capacity for growth, change, and self-reflection. It underscores the importance of documenting our lives, not just for the sake of memory, but as a means of connecting with and understanding our evolving selves. So, to my past self, I extend a heartfelt thank you for these gifts of insight and guidance. And to my future self, I promise to continue this tradition of introspection and growth, one page at a time.

So, grab a pen and let your heart spill onto the pages. Document your journey, unburden your soul, and set your sights on the horizon of self-discovery. Through the simple act of writing, you may find yourself connecting with the deepest parts of your being, discovering the richness of your own narrative, and forging a timeless link with the person you are yet to become. Your story is waiting to be told, and it begins with a single word, a fleeting thought, a moment of reflection. Write it down—your future self will thank you.

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