Noteworthy Acts

I received a card in the mail yesterday from a sweet friend. As I pulled the hand written note from its envelope, I was suddenly transported to a time void of social media and texting, a time of personal connections.

Growing up, cards were sent to comfort, cheer, and console. At times, they were simply sent to say, "I was thinking of you today." Whatever the occasion, cards were a way to connect with others. Somewhere along the road to progress, we lost that skill.

Many years ago, another friend of mine adopted the habit of writing a handwritten note each day. In the course of one year alone, she sent countless cards, covering every life event from a birthday to the birth of a baby. In addition to celebrating the milestones of family and friends, she sent cards to express her gratitude. She would pen beautiful words of appreciation for everything from a simple act of service to a kind word shared. I saw firsthand how her thoughtful cards impacted others, causing the recipient to feel truly special while inspiring them to be a better person.

I decided to follow in my friend's footsteps. However, I wasn't quite ready for a daily commitment, so I started with a weekly habit instead. For the past few years, I've set time aside each week to send out a card...or two. Sometimes, it's to celebrate a special event. Other times, it's to send words of encouragement. Most often, it's to express my gratitude.

Beyond the Happy Birthdays and Thinking of Yous, people tend to feel a greater sense of connection when we take the time to say Thank You. No matter how small that noteworthy act might have been, acknowledging someone's goodness can have a significant impact on how they see themselves. It also helps how we see those around us.

I am doing what I can to build that connection with others,

one week at a time,

one card at a time.