The name March originates from the Latin Martius, honoring Mars, the Roman god of war. Originally the first month of the Roman calendar, it marked the beginning of both the agricultural season and the time to resume military campaigns.
We usually celebrate March as the beginning of spring, the equinox falling on 20th March. The cherry, blackthorn, crocus and daffodils are blooming, taking over from the simplicity of the snowdrop.
But I want to explore the etymology of the name March and to see how the god of war could fit into the realm of journaling. Then it struck me, we use our journals as a weapon or as a means of defence.
My journal is my sword.
My journal is how I fight my battles; it is my weapon to defeat my demons. My journal cuts through negativity. It is my sharp focus and confidence.
As a sword, your journal is a tool for making progress, it fights for us; it is the championing force, capturing those brilliant ideas, plans of action and keeping us on track.
My journal is my shield.
My journal is my protector; it is my safe space and my secret keeper. It defends my vulnerabilities. It deflects negativity and mirrors my true self.
As a shield, your journal is a fortress for retreat and rest, it allows you to process, plan and protect those thoughts or feelings you are not ready to share.
This does not mean your journal is one or the other exclusively, just as a battle is not won only through offence or defence, it is a strategic balance of the two. Using your journal to champion yourself while also giving yourself a safe space to come back to is the most honest form of journaling, sharing the wins and the losses.
the paper sparrow 
Leave a comment