(Photo: Vinni)
On Saturday, I wrote about Cristina Vanko's project to send text messages via handwritten notes composed with a calligraphy pen. She observed that some of her friends felt touched by the process, as though Vanko's notes made them feel special to her:
11) It was indicated multiple times that people feel more "special" when they received handwritten messages.
I understand that. In my early twenties, I used to send out written letters instead of email to friends. They were typed, rather than handwritten. Almost always I received verbal or emailed rather than written responses. But one friend mentioned once that every letter was like getting a wrapped present. My practice wasn't reciprocated, but it was appreciated.
In Verily Mag, Julia Hogan writes that we all should occasionally write and send letters by hand:
But now that communication is exponentially faster—thanks in great part to email and smartphones—the handwritten note isn’t just rarer, it has taken on a new kind of meaning. Receiving a handwritten note is that much more significant today precisely because the writer chose to take the time to pen a note, rather than an abbreviated message. [...]
You don’t have to be Shakespeare. No need to compose poetry or write pages upon pages. Just say what’s on your heart. Tell your reader how much you value their friendship, or simply thank them for a gift you’ve received.
Dress up your note. Stationery can make any note seem extra special. You can easily find unique stationery to fit your budget no matter how large or small. Check out handcrafted cards on Etsy. Paper Source, Papyrus, and Target also have a good selection.
Be creative. If you’re feeling crafty, make your own stationery! Take a trip to your local craft store and pick up a package of blank cards and envelopes, a rubber stamp, and colored ink.
And remember, you don’t need the finest stationery, the most eloquent language, or even a special occasion to send a note! A simple, “thinking of you” is enough to make someone’s week.
-via Marilyn Terrell