IAJW Member of the Month ~ Mark S Segal

Cheltenham, Pennsylvania, USA

Why did you join the IAJW?

Originally after “publishing” my formatted writing books, I was looking for an audience for them. I was looking for people who might be interested in purchasing them. So I started reaching out into the Journaling sphere. What I found was not so much an audience, because honestly there is not much opportunity to really “push” the books and it doesn’t seem appropriate, but a community, a wonderful, welcoming, supportive community that has a lot to offer. I also found you and even though I am not big on prompts, I found what you did to be inspiring and revelatory. And you made it possible for me to join.

What do you like best about journal writing?

I am a morning writer and have been doing it pretty much (off and on) since the 80’s. Working out problems, venting anger(s) working on shows or ideas, etc. It was always a companion. Sketch books, journals etc. When Covid destroyed my career, I started writing every day (maybe even a bit before that) and have not stopped. It became vital when I had a realization. I had always lived a creative life, I played shows anywhere between 2-4 a day, every week day. I lived in my show. When they were gone who was I? What was I? My identity and raison’d’etre was gone. Then one day while writing, I realized that this was my creative place now. I would have to look it up to give more details.

Journaling is a journey in progress.  Always a challenge.

What is one journal writing tip (or advice) you would like to share?

To be honest, I don’t do this, but have. (I just write without form or reason, often surprised by where it leads). BUT the tip is:

Address your entry to someone or something. When I would do it, I’d address my sub consciousness. When writing a letter, words flow differently, you are trying to communicate something to somebody or something.

What is one of your favourite books on journal writing or creative inspiration?

I don’t believe that I have ever read a book about journaling, I just do it, trying to find what works for me. I have read, (long ago), books on creativity, creative thinking, puppetry, and now Jewish philosophy which deeply colors my view.

My one abiding rule when doing Puppets and now with Journaling is “if it works it is right, if it doesn’t work, try it another way.”

What is one thing you would like us to know about you?

I studied acting (B.U. School of Fine and Applied Arts) – in 1977 started my Puppet Theatre, which lasted until 2020. Never had any other job, it is all I did. Did not travel much, was not too adventurous, just worked. 🙂 Was a medium size fish in a very small pond sometimes playing for over 40,000 people a year. Had my shots at National recognition back in the 90’s but that didn’t work out. I was able to raise a family, 4 children – 3 step and one biological. And now am old. 🙂

My favourite part of being an IAJW member is…

I really like your guided journaling zoom sessions. Those are the most important to me.

All the other stuff is a bit beyond me and anyway I don’t pay enough concentrated attention to it all. I would like to take advantage of some of the workshops and courses offered but they are far above me financially. (I did receive a scholarship for a course which helps).

Anything else you might like to share…