A Norvell Note: A Place for Words

September 13, 2026 – Vol. 30 No. 34

I just finished filling another journal, and it always feels rewarding. I have a collection of journals on a shelf in my home study, each holding its own collection of stories. A few years ago, I decided to destroy some journals because they are private conversations between God and me. Journaling is an important part of my life—I’ve been doing it in some form for as long as I can remember. It gives my words and thoughts a special place and helps me feel more connected to the Lord.

The leather cover makes it easy to add new pages once I’ve finished the old ones. I love the paper’s special feel, with its soft yellow hue, and I enjoy writing in brown ink. I aim to journal each day, and it took me eleven months to fill this last one. My entries are straightforward: “Father, …” — those three dots represent whatever’s on my mind and in my heart right then. 

Some days I fill a page or two or three, feeling inspired and eager. Other days, I might find myself saying, “I have no words today.” Sometimes, I humbly ask for forgiveness, saying, “Forgive me; I am a sinner,” which I find myself doing almost every day. Some days, I vent with complaints, moans, and whines, while on others, I lift my heart in praise to the Lord for His goodness, kindness, and mercy. And then, there are those peaceful days when I sit quietly with my pen in hand, my journal open in front of me, gentle music playing softly, and my cats sleeping peacefully beside me. I often close my journal with a thankful heart, content with the quiet moments I’ve shared. 

I’m sharing this because journaling is something very personal to me. Some of you might not enjoy it or feel tempted to try, and that’s perfectly okay! I’m not urging anyone to do it. For me, journaling creates a warm, safe space to share my thoughts with the Lord—thoughts that sometimes turn into heartfelt articles, reflections, or even simple to-do lists. You might find that you wouldn’t want to read them because your name might come up in some entries, and perhaps you’d prefer not to hear what I have to say about you.

I’m sharing this because I need a space for my words—words that only God sees and hears. I hope you find a special place and time to share what’s in your heart and mind with the Lord, creating a moment of connection and peace. 

I’m thankful for a place for my words. 

I love you.

Tom

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