The Lost Art of Writing Letters

I wish we still wrote letters. Everything we value, was written on papers and other materials before the now ever-evolving technology of emails and texting. The Bible for instance, the oldest manuscript is full of letters from Paul to the Church among other writings. The Declaration of Independence with fifty-five signatures, the document to this day is displayed and preserved.

But aside from these, what about in the 17th century, before the telephone? Back when people had to put more effort into communicating. When people would sit by the mailbox or await the postman to receive news from family members. Imagine the anxiousness of waiting for news, ill or otherwise in the post.

Not to mention the personal touch of a handwritten letter. Whether between a mother and her daughter, or best friends scattered between continents. Or maybe torn lovers, with only letters keeping them in contact.

We are so spoiled. These days we don't even have to leave so much as a personal signature in our messages. (Unless they are of great importance.) We type, and print. Or text and send. Handwritten cursive and calligraphy are either rare or nonexistent. We lack the discipline or care to practice either. And calligraphy is far too time consuming in the busy world of today. We can simply find the desired font online and type it to our heart's content.

Let's also not forget the classic inkwell pens that were originally used. Imagine precariously writing without smudging the paper with the ink. Imagine being lefthanded. This would be nearly impossible.

Letters are such a keepsake item as well. Whether it was merely a simple note of passing thought, or a heartfelt outpour for someone's eyes and ears, they are printed vulnerability. And imagine having these letters on a rainy day, or to keep memories of another person who's since passed. What a precious proclamation.

I have sent a few letters, but it is not my most frequent measure of communication by a long shot. However, I do love sending letters. While I enjoy the luxury of hearing a person's voice and it being a phone call away, it is so much more then people used to be blessed with.

You see, I am blessed with both. I have a box of old cards and notes, and letters I've received over the years. I also have people to call and talk to at the drop of a hat. Me being a writer however, I love little bits of inspiration and joy from people's words and notes. They are sharing their art with me. Their language, their style, their own personal flair. Their thoughts.

Reading letters is like reading a book. It is someone you know yes, but you have to play their voice in your head and picture their face as you read through it. It is a personal story, one that you are blessed to be sharing and reading. A private, personal conversation held in your hands. Unique handwriting, unmatched and untouched.

The phrase 'keep me posted' should maybe be taken a bit more literally. After all, writing is an art. Why not share yours with someone else?