Yeah I guess either way works. Although I think I've seen people of the mind that they quite enjoy the Journals being out of the traffic's way and in a more ... private format. I can see the reasoning in that. The bonds we develop on here are really what gets us through and while chatting with everyone no matter how much of a drive-by commentator they are is pleasant, it feels good to have a more personal space for people that feel close to you.
I for one don't even use the New Posts feature as it includes posts from all sections and I have no business being in those but use the User CP link. That's where all threads I have participated in show when they have been updated. Works like a charm, highly recommend the method.