matriarchs – Mirta Ines Trupp~ Author

The last blog post discussed the concept of expressive writing and my hopes for publishing something unique and thought provoking. This project is not a historical fiction based in Russia or Argentina. It’s not a Regency Romance in keeping with my love for Jane Austen. My sixth publication is a daily journal about—and more importantly, for—Jewish women. It will provide a bit of structure and a comfortable environment to reflect upon historical accomplishments, religious identity, moral questions, life cycle events, and so much more.

If you were to search for a daily journal on Amazon, the results would be staggering. As a matter of fact, in recent years the market has been overwhelmed with these so-called low content publications. These books have minimal, or even, no content— just pages of empty lines waiting to be filled with the consumer’s own thoughts. The author provides a quote or a simple phrase as motivation, but that’s about it. I’ve crafted something a bit different.

Technically, my project is considered medium content. There is some repetition in that I have provided space for you, the consumer, to write. However, rather than offering a quote or prayer as inspiration, I have provide a brief synopsis for each of the one hundred women showcased in the journal. After each snippet of history, there are three thoughtfully constructed questions to help you navigate through your thoughts and strengthen your resolve, your point of view—your faith.

Another factor that differentiates my project from other journals is that it’s specifically geared towards Jewish women. Naturally, everyone is welcome to enjoy it and learn from it. I believe any person of faith would find the journal an enlightening and useful tool. That being said, the P.O.V. for this project (Point of View—that’s me trying to show off my author’s vocabulary) is unapologetically Jewish. Jennifer Wulff, Certified Spiritual Director, believes that, “Expressive journaling becomes a sacred and holy space, where you can explore your deepest questions and strengthen the connections between yourself and the Divine.” Now, more than ever, it is important to find our own voice. To look back with pride and to look forward without fear. To be comfortable in our own skin.

Shoyn! (as my bobe used to say) Enough already! I promised a cover reveal. So, here it is:

Nu? What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Publishing Day is fast approaching! I look forward to hearing from you soon.

With love,

I originally drafted this up a couple of weeks ago, but I couldn’t bring myself to share it due to the horrific situation in Israel. Reading enlightening work shared by other authors, and coming across requests for uplifting posts, I’ve decided to take make this a public piece.

In recent years, journal writing, or engaging in expressive writing, has been proven to have a positive impact on the participant. It helps us be more mindful, to be more grateful. It helps improve focus and alleviates stress. But studies have shown that simply writing onto a blank page doesn’t necessarily produce positive benefits. As with everything else, it’s the intention that matters. It’s about introspection and connection.

That’s where my new project comes in.

As many of you know, I am drawn to the success stories of days gone by. I’ve been working on creating a daily journal that will allow us to get acquainted—or reacquainted, as the case may be—with the women of yesteryear.

We’ll meet the meidelach, the young women who were just getting started and were trying to figure things out. We’ll meet the matriarchs who shouldered the burdens of life and led by example.

Here’s the plan: I will share a brief snippet of their stories, one woman for one hundred days. One hundred opportunities to inspire your thoughts, your creativity, your philanthropy, your Jewish observance or your Jewish identity. Let’s not focus on politics or other ideologies that may only serve to cause division. Let’s focus instead on the uniting factors.

We are women.

We are Jewish.

We are daughters, sisters, mothers, and wives.

Some of us are a balabusta. Some of us are a bluestocking. Some of us have a yiddishe kop for business. Of one thing I am certain:

There is an Eshet Chayil (a Woman of Valor) in every one of us.

My suggestion would be that the reader take a few minutes to learn about one woman each day—just one. Truly think about her, where she came from, what she accomplished. Reflect on the barriers she had to overcome. Does her experience resonate with you? Allow yourself to be inspired. There will be prompts to jot down your thoughts and additional space to scribble a few notes, ask G-d for guidance—put things into perspective. I will include a page where you can track your observations at the end of this journey. There is no pressure, no judgement. That’s the beauty of this journal. No one needs to know; it’s just between you and the Woman of Valor that lives inside you.

How does that sound? Does it appeal to you? I hope you will enjoy it and share it with your family, friends and loved ones. I can’t wait for Publication Day! This will be an enlightening resource or a lovely gift for all Jewish women. Here are a few suggestions:

Bat Mitzvah
Confirmation
Hebrew School Teacher
Rabbi
Cantor
Birthday
Chanukah
Sisterhood
Woman of Valor Award
Book club
Dvar Torah

More to follow soon!

Tag: matriarchs

Cover Reveal~ A Daily Journal for Jewish Women

Expressive Writing~ A Daily Journal for the Jewish Woman