Justine's Journal #39

52 Weeks 500 Words

This is how it began: Justine (not her real name) decided to write 500 words (or as near as), anything goes, per week for 52 weeks. She would then submit it for anonymous posting, via me, her friend. Perhaps a pattern will emerge from her words, but at this stage it’s more an experiment I have agreed to share in. I’ll attempt to draw conclusions at the end of this. Stay tuned if this resonates with you.

Week 39

"We have been discussing creating a book from these journal entries. At the moment, between Elaina and myself, we’re thinking of putting all the posts together and then adding commentary below each entry, along with relevant tags (anger, insight, joy, frustration and such) to explain state of mind at the time. Each week will receive a chapter heading to explain the concept delved into.

What do you think? You do realise, any comments you make here will land up in the proposed book, as will this journal entry – the latter feels sort of odd to me, discussing a book in a book.

We do realise we are two friends about an experiment. In no way are we experts at emotional untangling, or psyche doctors, but we thought others may learn from us as we bumble around. While both of us are serious about this, we do not pretend to have answers that fit for all.

The notion is in fact daunting, because much went into the soul searching and it has been hard to share, and yet this isn't my name and no one will ever know (besides my closest friends) who the subject of Justine’s Journal is. Elaina at one stage suggested we do a reveal at the end of the book, but, sorry, I am not comfortable with that at all. I prefer my anonymity, but I am also quite happy (now) for others to take my ramblings and possibly find something in them that may help.

Now I find myself laughing. When I pop this entry off to Elaina for upload, she will wonder if I’m doing the right thing in revealing our intentions. (Got you, right, E?) We are, after all, merely discussing the likelihood; it isn't yet an absolute decision. I’m thinking, though, if anyone does comment at this point, it will serve as added impetus.

It’s amazing how colder weather creates new ways of thinking. Yes, finally we are heading into winter here. Rain is still scarce, but no doubt it will come soon now. The days are much shorter and nights are decidedly chilly, although our days are warm still. We still have to duck the sun and water gardens and fill bird containers until the rains do arrive, but nights are now spent in greater introspection as they arrive earlier and seem unending. I think this is why Elaina and I started talking about a book. We have more time to think now, for when the sun is hot and out, who wants to sit behind a computer? 

Have a good weekend, everyone, and a lovely week, until we chat again.