The Art of a Handwritten Letter, an Assignment

The art of a handwritten letter, or anything else handwritten for that matter, is lost on most people in today’s era. The only mail we generally receive is either bills or sales circulars. In this over digital society we live in, we are so bombarded today with technology that getting a letter in the mail would probably make some of those among us faint. Children in schools aren't even learning how to use cursive. Well, this holiday season I say, let’s bring back the art of a handwritten letter. Here is an assignment for the followers of this blog. Don’t cheat. Use of the computer for anything other than researching addresses or ways to decorate a card is not allowed for this assignment. To me, writing is as natural as walking. But, I tend to do most of my writing on the computer where it is all type-written. Neat rows of letters all lined up on the screen, with squiggly red or green lines letting me know I need to make a correction, and instant spell check is the realm I live in. I know so many of you are in the same predicament. I rarely see my own penmanship anymore and probably wouldn’t recognize it in a stack of other people’s writings. But, alas, I believe that we can bring back the art of the handwritten letter with just a little effort. Who is with me? I came upon this idea while sending a check in the mail to a family member. I usually send a card, but this time I didn’t have one on hand. I was shocked at how much I really had to say and how quickly the page filled up with news of my family, including new activities the kids are into, what I am doing these days, and how my spouse is making out. Now, I talk on the phone with this person about once a week. But it felt so good to take a break, sit down, and see my handwriting on a piece of paper. Everyone can write. If you take your time, even the worst penmanship is legible. Go to the store and gather a few items to make beautiful handmade cards this holiday season. Or, simply pick up some colorful stationery and write a summary of your family’s year. Encase each card or letter in a matching envelope, put a stamp on it, and go to the post office to mail. Or, in case you didn’t know, the postman will pick up outgoing mail. Just leave it in your mailbox at the end of the drive and put the little red flag up. Yep, that’s what that is for! But, what does one say in a letter? Well like I mentioned above talk about everything happening with your family and friends; be conversational and ask questions about their family -- this is so they can write back and answer your questions -- tell about your latest shopping trips or dinners or the tea you last attended, talk about future events you want to attend and if you would like, ask them to attend with you. Subject matter in a letter or on a card is unlimited. The more you say and ask, the more it may encourage them to write back. Let’s see if this works. If you send out handwritten letters and cards to your family and friends and they pick up on the idea and send their own creations out as well, we just might bring back the art of a handwritten letter. Please comment and let me know how your assignment goes. I would really love to hear from you.