We live in the digital era, where texting well wishes is a trendy yet sweet gesture, paperless bills are the environmentally responsible choice, and the more we reuse and recycle- the better. I appreciate these options as much as the next person – truly. But I also think some things are just better “old school.” So there are a few things that I just don’t skip over, simply because of the computerized world we live in. It may be 2018, but I still choose to mail birthday and anniversary cards, handwrite thank you cards for gifts received, write in a journal, read paper/printed books, use a paper planner, and even write occasional letters to family members.
Sometimes the fast pace of the online world that I frequently participate in causes me to feel entirely overstimulated. I’ve learned that I need boundaries to keep the noise of the world from drowning out being present with what’s really in front of me and upholding healthful rest. I’m learning as I go that I need these boundaries to be in a healthy state of mind.
These small changes I’ve chosen have also created in me a deep appreciation for sentiment and being present. I’m a work in progress, but I’m emotionally healthier when I choose *real world* things over digital things when I can. It gives me a more peaceful, focused mindset and feels grounding. Those paper products I listed above are part of that – going “old school” with little pieces of life.
Opening a book to read in the evening relaxes me. Sending personalized greeting cards provides an opportunity to show genuine care and thoughtfulness. Keeping a handwritten journal is healing and hopeful.
All of the good this digital age brings is just that – good. I’m grateful for it and appreciate its value. I just also want to sustain the goodness of personalized and handwritten. Nothing can replace its sincerity and value.
