The Beauty of the Written Word

5.14am,

This week I got a letter in the mail. Yes, an actual hand written letter from a friend sent via snail mail. It was so charming to receive hard copies and have letters written in their signature style. I love seeing people’s handwriting, I think you can decipher a lot from it.

A year ago this wouldn’t have been unusual in the least, I used to write letters with great regularity. But now, with the internet, email, Facebook, discussion boards, blogs and websites, I do it in a different manner. To me, it is still the written word though. And I love the written word. I love reading and writing words, no matter the format. There is such permanence in getting the words down. Such finality of the statement of what was being felt at that time.

Don't get me wrong, I love technology and can't survive without email and my MacBook, but there is something to be said for the charm and simple beauty of a handwritten note. When reading my handwritten letters I often wonder, what was the sender thinking when he wrote the letter? Was it planned? Was he sitting on a park bench, in a crowded coffee shop, or on his bed? Did he cry, and if so, were they tears of joy or sadness? Was he laughing? Was he mad? Besides, I also love feel and smell of old stationary paper.

Sometimes the written word can be too overwhelming for me. I will always have a love affair with words. Such strength, might and meaning in those silly formations of the alphabet. I am glad for everyone who writes, be it professional writer or avid texter. Getting the words out there takes thought, even if it’s an unintelligible one. It speaks volumes, and I like it.

Handwritten letters are personal and exude warmth, sincerity and love. After all, who can forget Allie's face when her mother handed her Noah's letters in The Notebook?

Blessed! :)

12.43am

I've found that good friends are hard to come by. And lately, I've been focusing on myself and sorting my shit out and the things that make me truly happy. I've been so blessed to have the friends that I've had over the years, and lately being able to make more time for them has made me realize how lucky I am. Especially with the holidays and reuniting with my oldest, closest friends..

When I was in past relationships and even afterwards as I dealt with all the repercussions I feel like I allowed myself to drift away and got caught up in my own world. Caught up in emotions and distractions and just all sorts of things. Over the past little while, but the past month especially, I feel like I've really started to be true to myself again and I can see that old me shining through. All my passions and who I am right at the very heart is becoming clear. And let me say, clarity is a beautiful thing.

So for any time that I took friendship, family, or even myself for granted.. I'm making it up now. And I'm loving my life. After being a little bit lost for so long.. I just feel alive. Never ever forgetting how blessed I am. I love you guys.