About the Author

Bee-Jai Bell

Hello, I'm Bee-Jai. Let me share a bit about myself. Originally from Oneida, Arkansas, I was born to Eugene and Anita. I am a mother of two young adults named Keturah and James II. Despite my initial plan to become an attorney, my mother saw a different path for me – that of an educator. I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in education from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. After university, I began my first teaching experience at Lakeview Elementary.

After unexpected turns, I then became a first-grade teacher at Marvell Elementary, later teaching second grade. Following several years in the teaching field, I decided to pursue a master's degree in school leadership from Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi. An opportunity arose at Marvell High School to become a counselor, leading me to earn a master's degree in School Counseling from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Living in a rural-urban society with high crime rates, scarce job opportunities, and elevated socioeconomic challenges, I found inspiration to create this journal. Initially driven by the pandemic, where I conducted motivational moments on Zoom to bring calm to students, the journal took shape. Many in our community had suffered losses to COVID-19 and violence, prompting me to continue offering moments of relaxation.

The journal serves as a tool for both students and teachers, encouraging an open mind and heart as they interact with it. I urge individuals to reflect on gratitude, acknowledging that while life may present challenges, focusing on what one is thankful for can reshape one's mindset and foster positive thoughts.

How to use the journal

In the Gratitude Journal, you have the opportunity to:

- Express your emotions through writing

- Capture your feelings through illustrations

- Maintain daily logs to track your emotions

Here are some instructions to enhance your journaling experience:

1. Create a serene environment by dimming the lights and finding a quiet space. You can add soft music for a soothing atmosphere.

2. Get comfortable, as you are about to authentically lay down your emotions.

3. Be honest with yourself as you reflect on your thoughts and feelings.

4. Read the affirmations daily to instill positivity into your mindset.

5. Perform a single act of kindness, both for yourself and others.

Why provide these instructions for journaling? The goal is to cultivate a positive outlook on life and spread joy to the world around you. The cover of this journal is designed to evoke the innocence and curiosity of a child. It aims to reconnect you with the wide-eyed wonder and carefree bliss you once experienced or, if you are part of today's youth, to embrace that youthful perspective as you navigate through life.