In today’s technology-saturated society, so much of our communication is done through a screen. Whether it be shooting a quick text to one of our friends, sending a funny snapchat, or writing an email to a professor, we are constantly connected to one another through our devices.
While there are a ton of benefits to using technology to have a conversation with someone, like the convenience and the ability to keep in touch with those who live distantly, I think it has also taken away from some of the unique and sentimental qualities of previous methods. This brings me to my next point:
When is the last time you’ve written something special for someone?
No, not from a keyboard, but really written it; pen and paper style.
For many of us, myself included, the last time we wrote a letter was ages ago, or maybe even never at all. Besides, why would we when it's so much easier to just type out messages?
The answer is simple, because it's so much more personal.
While both are very nice and have the ability to get the message across, there's something much more inviting about receiving something that has been handwritten over something that was not.
When something is handwritten, you know the writer took the time to make your piece perfect. Unlike a computer or other gadget, this isn't automatically done for you. Spelling, grammar, and formatting aren't being corrected without the writer's interference.
Alternatively, it might not be perfect. That too makes writing letters much more special. You can see a writer's individuality through their unique writing styles and handwriting. Sure, Times New Roman and Arial fonts are great, but I'd much rather see someone's very own font. Of course it's important for letters to be organized, but I would love to see eraser marks, pen smudges, or scribbles, because you can see your writer's thoughts represented on the paper, right there in front of your very eyes. And to me, that's so much more realistic.
Some of my favorite memories growing up involve receiving a letter or card from my friends or family members on my birthday, during the holidays, or just because. I love reading what they have to say to me and I always save them to re-read over and over again. Also, I love writing letters to others and have been known to write my friends lots of them. Even though technology is changing and new methods are taking over, I will always be one to enjoy writing or receiving a handwritten letter.
While a text message could put a smile on your face, there's nothing like a handwritten letter you can hold onto and enjoy for years, not just seconds.
