I was recently at a journaling seminar where a discussion ensued about the types of journals. One lady mentioned that between their families, they used letter writing as a form of communication between family members, and wondered if that could be classified as keeping a journal. I think it could be. It is a dated account of events and a journal is defined as an account, a record of daily experiences, and what better way to record these than in a letter to loved ones.
I don’t know how many of us have a drawer full of old letters from family members, friends or lovers. If you do, consider yourself fortunate. These are thoughts that your loved ones were willing to share - unlike a journal, where most likely hide it away.
In recent years, letter writing has taken a twist to the contemporary, with any type of paper being used. Prior to the nineteenth century, letter writing was an art, where special papers were used, with quill pen and sealed wax emblem. If you want to get creative with your letter/journal, try surprising them with some fancy Amalfi paper, handmade from Italy. Its lush decaled edges demand serious attention.
If writing in a journal doesn’t appeal to you, but writing to friends and relatives about your thoughts, then what a treasure you are passing on!