The other day I received a text from a friend. It read, “My last 24 hours have been the happiest and most fun I’ve had in a long time, thanks to you.” After reading it, I paused for a moment, reflecting on what we had done that made such an impression on my friend. We met for dinner to celebrate her birthday, and then the next morning we delivered Meals on Wheels. We always have a good time when we get together, but I didn’t know how much this time meant to her. I saved the text and reread it several times throughout the next few days. It was such an honest, genuine message, she was speaking from her heart.
The Importance of Writing Meaningful Messages
This was a great reminder of how important it is to write meaningful messages. We can dutifully sit down, write a thank you note and cross it off the to do list. Done. We said thank you. Or we can spend a few moments reflecting on why we are sending a note and write more about what the time spent together or the gift we received meant to us. We have a choice to make that note routine or real.
So often people say to me that they don’t send anything by mail any more. It’s just easier and quicker to send an email or text. I’m not arguing with that, it is easier and quicker. But the same concept of choosing your words and sending a message that’s personable for both you and the recipient can apply.
Why I Prefer Handwriting Notes
Call me old-fashioned if you will, but I still prefer handwriting notes. It’s just my style. I like sitting down and jotting a note. It connects me with the person. I think about the role they play in my life, what they did for me and how much I appreciate it. Plus, it’s fun to sift through the daily mail and occasionally receive something other than advertisements, solicitations or catalogs!
Whatever your style, it all comes down to expressing yourself in a genuine manner. Whether it be sending a note, emailing a paragraph, texting a sentence, shaking hands or hauling the person in for a big bear hug – make it mean something. To share gratitude is a gift – to the sender and recipient.
Ellen Beans
I served as a Director at Bryan Health for 40 years. Pat served as the Chief Financial Officer for NRC Health for many years. He now serves as the Manager for Amandla, LLC.
We have two sons, Winston and Beau. Winston is married to Emily, and they have a daughter, Sophia, 5 years old. Beau is self-employed and works diligently to assure the success of his company. He also carries the title of Best Uncle Ever!
As the author of the Grandparent blog, I’ll be writing about the challenges and rewards of retirement. I’ll focus on the roles I have taken on in life – spouse, parent, In-law, grandparent, colleague and friend, and how they have changed over the years. This is the plan for the blog, but as we all know, plans can change!
