Journal writing as a spiritual exercise in self-knowledge : Thomas Merton : a case study

Abstract

This study proposes journal writing as a spiritual exercise in self-knowledge, taking Thomas Merton as a case study. Using a phenomenological approach, this study sheds light on the use of spiritual journal writing as a tool that could help one to find meaning in daily experiences and, in journeying with God, finding one’s own true self. Therefore, this work tries to see how writing helps in knowledge and how knowledge helps growth. Merton’s journals give us a glimpse of a man who continuously journeyed and sought to find his true self in his life. Considered as a prophet of this age, Merton can offer us hope and new light to embark on a meaningful spiritual journey with God.