Handwritten Notes Make an Impression

Handwritten notes are almost a lost art. That's sad, I think.

A couple of days ago, I received from a friend a beautifully-written, heartfelt note that I shall keep and treasure always. I thought then about how these days not many of us take time to write meaningful notes and send them by postal mail.

Most of us are so busy that we write quick messages and post them on Facebook, Twitter, or in our e-mail accounts. Those messages are great to receive and certainly keep us aware of what others are doing, but they will never be as special as a well-written note, crafted by hand, and sealed in an envelope.

I have a close friend who always sends a handwritten note to me as a thank you for gifts or other special gestures. Another acquaintance is quick to write letters to acknowledge a visit or to send a newspaper clipping she has saved for me.

I always write little thank-you notes to school children who bring me small gifts for Christmas or at the end of the school year. Since I use cards that feature my paintings, they are especially pleased to receive them. This example, I hope, will encourage the children to someday write their own thank-you notes to friends.

Do you write notes by hand and mail them to your friends? Do you treasure those you receive?

I love the ones I receive. Heartfelt notes make a real impression on me. I hope it never becomes a completely lost art.