5 Reasons the Pen is Better than the Keyboard
I recently read through the pages of my journal, specifically the words I wrote concerning my past cancer treatments. While undergoing chemotherapy, I slept most of the day, meditated on scripture, and wrote into the early morning hours. My journal became my companion.
During that time, I concentrated on my physical recovery, but God prompted me to pay attention to my heart. At that time, I didn’t understand how emotions suppressed in the heart affected my physical body. So I began writing out my prayers and grievances. Throughout my battle with cancer, God’s presence filled me with peace and assured me that I should accept His will for my healing, whether it came from a restored body in heaven or on earth.
The Struggle
For some people, typing thoughts onto a computer increases productivity. I agree because typing can be less time-consuming. But typing thoughts and emotions on a computer does not provide the same emotional release as writing on paper. The steady movement of the pen as it flows across the page calms us because we express our emotions while being more relaxed and at peace.
I can’t resist editing my words when I type on a keyboard. The constant backspacing, shifting for uppercase letters, and pressing the space bar make it difficult to connect with my thoughts. Distractions ensue, and I begin to fight to gain dominance over the keyboard. Soon my fingers start rambling, and I find it difficult to type meaningful words.
5 Reasons Why the Pen is Better than the Keyboard
- Less distractions occur than with emails and social media distractions.
- Writing by hand activates more areas of the brain than typing.
- Handwriting causes the brain to slow down and process information, thoughts, and feelings.
- Causes the writer to connect with words which reduces stress.
- Promotes better learning and memory retention as the eye follows the handwriting.
If you prefer to stick with writing thoughts digitally, try starting with writing your ideas, notes, and thoughts first on paper. Then you can transfer them over to your digital source.
With every journal entry, I processed my feelings. I accepted my diagnosis, and my emotions lined up with hope. I slowly rediscovered God’s love through my cancer. Writing with pen and paper calmed my emotions. I felt free to slow down and embrace this new journey. I have been cancer-free for 7 years.
Phyllis, I’m thankful you are still alive and well. My experience with cancer was solely between me, God, my husband and my doctors and I’m grateful I had the support from all of them. I, too, have been cancer free 7 years.
You were one of the first HS Moms I met at the beginning of my journey and I’ve always looked up to you and respected your vision and antidotes whilst we were raising our children. And although we didn’t finish our HS days together, I’d like to think we are still friends and I want you to know I’m always here for you.
Thank you for continuing to share your wisdom through your journal. I agree. While using your hands, to write, you are engaging more of your brain and thereby also causing more thoughts to escape and spill out onto your paper. While typing, I have become distracted as well…editing, etc.
I praise the Lord with you for the 7 years cancer free! I’ve never been able to get into journaling but your points make a lot of sense. I can’t wait to see a copy of it. I’m so excited for you. Another praise!
Lynn, I am grateful we’ve both come through with healing. I will always remember our HS days in the Valley. The memories bring so much joy. It’s good we moved on from that desert place. I appreciate your friendship and your commitment to reading and commenting on the blog. Blessings to you.
Lorraine, I appreciate your honesty. I took me some time for me to get into journaling. I am also excited to see a copy of my book!