A look into the past

I discovered the value of journal writing as a teenager. It felt so freeing to be able to scribble raw emotion onto the pages within. But besides a stress release, and a way to reason through my feelings, these writings have proven invaluable to me as I’ve looked back through them. Experiences and feelings I had forgotten, have provided the knowledge that, I survived those struggles once, which gives me hope that I can do it again.
Some of my entries also provide me a good laugh. Some of the things that seemed so important in my life then seem so trivial and silly now. But I realize though I have changed quite a bit since then, my core values are still the same. I have found that, who I became in my teenage years is who I have mostly remained and that the older I get, the harder it is to change. I read this particular entry the other day:

Feb. 22, 1998 (Age 16)
QUALITIES I WANT IN A FUTURE HUSBAND
Respectful
Understanding
Intelligent
Confident- But not cocky
Not too romantic
Athletic
Friendly - not a hermit
Church Member
Spiritual
Worthy Priesthood Holder
Hard working
Sense of humor
Can handle my belching talent - *you don’t wanna know
Uses clean language
Thoughtful, kind & helpful to others
Treats his mom really well
College graduate
Has patience
Likes kids & works well with them
Sensitive yet manly at the same time (LOL)
Has a testimony
Will cuddle me and give me hugs
Is not judgemental
Smiles a lot
Takes care of himself physically
Is my best guy friend
Strong- physically, spiritually, emotionally, mentally

At first skim I thought, “Oh, is that all I expected?”
I laughed because it was lengthy and some of my requirements were a little silly. I also laughed because I knew exactly what I wanted then, and you know what, I didn’t end up settling for anything less. (Well except appreciating the belching thing, but I think he’s just jealous that I can out belch him).

So, did you ever make a list of qualities you wanted in your future spouse? Did you find that guy?

What about journal writing? Has it been helpful to you to look back?
I’ll admit I’m not in the habit anymore, but I think I need to make it a priority again. Maybe one of these days we could have a journal entry carnival. Where everyone posts one or a couple of their favorite journal entries from their teenage years. What do you think?