This can be done, so if someone lacks the means to make a written record or is in a state of fear of it being discovered, like a personal diary, and then being attacked and ridiculed, or worse, there is nothing wrong with keeping a mental list. After all, we look at the intentions of everyone, so even those compiling a very careful list of issues will be only a starting point for us to go and see what is behind those listings. In other words, the deep intentions giving rise to the concern, because that is the fuel, after all. The stated words on the list are simply a pointer to the problem and the client's intentions for achieving a betterment of some kind.
We do favor some organization and rigor in putting a list together so it is comprised of something arrived at through contemplation, serious pondering, and thinking about it somewhat more deeply than a knee-jerk reaction, perhaps for needs that have nagged at a person for a long time but are more an emotional reaction than a thoughtful analysis, so it can be described meaningfully in writing. This is why we recommend people write down such things, and sometimes even prayers as well, to be sure they have all the components the person would like to see enacted, it will help focus thinking, sharpen attention, and encourage greater discernment as well. In other words, it will be a useful exercise for both parties, the clients themselves in working towards a meaningful solution, and for us to act on the requests with deeper understanding and a greater level of commitment, having taken the time to think about things carefully, so what goes on the list will be something meaningful and serious, and not a haphazard, fleeting thought that might come from day-to-day about many things but with little conviction, in some cases, behind it.
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