Each year, we seem to be introduced to new technology that helps save us time and assists us as we seek to become more productive. Email has replaced “snail mail” for most of us. We pay our bills online, send out party invitations through “e-vites”, carry on meetings through web conferences, and correspond with one another through short texts and email exchanges.
In schools, less attention has been given to handwriting in exchange for speed and accuracy on technology driven correspondence. There are many advantages to these advancements and I have certainly benefited from their use myself. But are these advancements improving all aspects of our lives? I’ve long believed in the power of a face to face discussion, a handshake, a hug, and of the handwritten note. I know what you are thinking- “This is the 21st Century. Nobody writes notes anymore!”
Periodically I take the time to transcribe a handwritten note to a colleague, my wife or a friend. Sometimes it’s just to say “thank you” for work well done. Other times it’s just a note of encouragement or a message to let them know I have them on my mind. I can’t count the number of times, sometimes months later, that I’ve seen those same handwritten notes taped to that person’s computer screen or thumbtacked to a corkboard in their office. You know what I don’t see memorialized in the same manner- an email or a text. I’m not contesting that handwritten notes are more meaningful necessarily or that other forms of communication are not as beneficial. I do think however that a handwritten note speaks volumes more than the letters captured on the paper. It says, “I value you and I wanted to take time out of my busy life to let you personally know.”
As we enter into the Spring season and our lives become even more hectic, remember to stop periodically and say “thank you” in person to someone. Maybe even take a few moments to rummage through your desk drawers to find a pen and paper to write them a handwritten note.
