Journals

Telling physicians about spiritual practices is not as inviting as a personal experience. Use journals for this part of orientation. Allow participants a few minutes to consider the question: “What does spirituality mean to you?” Ask them to write their answers. Watch them for indicators that they have finished writing. They ordinarily write for about three minutes. Occasionally, someone will try to write a dissertation. If so, ask if anyone needs another minute; then you can bring the group back together after a brief pause. Let each one comment on the question. Rarely, someone will decline. Do not press them; pressure destroys the crucible of safety that you have labored to create. Journaling is tempting to delete, but it dramatically enriches the ensuing dialogue.