Jo-Ellen Darling’s career includes technical writing, newspaper reporting and editing, and 10 years of freelance journalism while working in social services. She co-edited the book On The Journey for the Kairos School of Spiritual Formation in 2016 and occasionally leads contemplative writing retreats. Darling received a B.A. in English from the University of Massachusetts at Boston, and an M.S. in Communications Management from Simmons University. Journaling as a Spiritual Path is her first book.
“Darling was once asked in her thirties: “What is stopping you from having a friendship with God?” She was stunned – a friendship with God? Her heart had trouble connecting with religion and her life was caught in the briars of addiction. But in hearing that question, she suddenly found hope. Not knowing where it would lead, she picked up a pen and began to journal daily. Now in her sixties, Darling is still amazed at how journaling – and this simple timely question – changed the trajectory of her life, as each had arrived in a moment of spiritual bankruptcy – and a door through which she escaped a meaningless future.” ~ From Chapter 5, “Journaling as a Spiritual Practice“
What People Are Saying
“This beautifully written book by Jo-Ellen Darling is a treasury of wise teaching. Interweaving story, reflections, writing exercises and excellent journal prompts and questions, it is filled with sound, practical suggestions and help for tending wounds and writing your way to the “truth of your own self.” Go slow, Darling advises. I concur. Her honest, hopeful examples are filled with life lessons and gentle encouragement for your own journey. “Being in a state of unknowing,” she writes, “isn’t the same as losing your way. This book is a gold mine.“
~ Paula D’Arcy, author of Stars at Night and Waking Up to This Day
“IF YOU HAVE BEEN in the desert with your journaling practice, this book is just the oasis you’re searching for. Leaving no stone unturned, Journaling as a Spiritual Path will be a boon to the novice as well as the seasoned spiritual traveler. This book is pure journaling genius!”
Catherine Campanaro – Celebrant, Spiritual Director, Drum Circle Facilitator and Retreat Leader
“I HAVE TOYED with the idea of journaling, tried it a number of times, but it was never long-lasting. As I move into the latter stages of life and now that I’m journaling, I’m eager to share my experiences with my children and grandchildren. The author shares her personal journey and provides exercises and questions that have led me to deeper insights as to who I truly am. In my journaling, I find a greater love for others, for self, for all of creation, and the Creator of all.”
George Maunz, M.A.
“OUR MIND IS full of thoughts! Write them down. Then read these pages as Jo-Ellen Darling gently guides you through the transformative power of journaling. Her book is a treasure full of love, compassion, and honesty.”
Linda Klopp, Spiritual Director
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Journaling as a Spiritual Path 