Nearly a century and a half after his death, John Hancock leaves an indelible mark on our world.
Not through a groundbreaking invention or a transformative policy but rather through the power of his pen.
Every January 23rd, we celebrate National Handwriting Day in honor of Hancock, one of the most famous signers of the U.S. Constitution, as a testament to the purity and power of handwriting.
In our rapidly digitizing world, handwriting holds a unique, enduring charm.
The Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association (WIMA), the sponsor of National Handwriting Day, aptly describes handwriting as an opportunity for us to be “artists and individuals” in an era dominated by impersonal fonts on screens.
They argue that handwriting “can add intimacy to the letter and reveal details about the writer’s personality.”
This sentiment rings true when you consider that throughout history, handwritten documents have sparked love affairs, started wars, established peace, freed enslaved people, created movements, and declared independence.
Perhaps, the resonance of these handwritten documents lies in their ability to convey the human touch – an element that sterile digital text often fails to capture.
Given the significance of handwriting, let’s explore some ways to celebrate this National Handwriting Day and make handwriting a regular part of our lives:
1. Stock Up on Writing Instruments:
One of the best ways to make writing more enjoyable is by using a variety of pens and pencils.
Whether you prefer the classic elegance of a fountain pen, the practicality of a ballpoint, or the vibrant colors of felt tips, having your favorite tools at your disposal can turn writing into a delightful experience.
2. Invest in Unusual and Attractive Writing Instruments:
There is something incredibly satisfying about writing with an instrument that feels right in your hand. It could be a beautifully crafted wooden pencil or a sleek, metal-bodied pen – find something that suits your style and makes writing feel special.
3. Create Handwritten Birthday Cards:
A handwritten card can stand out as a heartfelt gesture in a world where birthday wishes are often reduced to text messages or social media posts.
This simple act can remind us and the recipient of the personal touch and thoughtfulness that come with handwriting.
4. Dedicate Time for Family Letter Writing:
Setting aside time each month for the whole family to write letters to loved ones can be an excellent way to bond while preserving the art of handwriting.
It’s a beautiful opportunity to connect with those who matter to us more deeply.
In the words of author Julia Cameron, “Writing by hand is laborious, and that is why typewriters were invented.
But I believe that the labor has virtue because of the slowness with which one has to write.”
This National Handwriting Day, let’s embrace this labor of love and reclaim the virtue of the handwritten word.
To inspire you on this journey, here are some quotes about writing:
“Writing is an exploration. You start from nothing and learn as you go.” – E.L. Doctorow
“The act of writing is the act of discovering what you believe.” – David Hare
“You don’t write because you want to say something, you write because you have something to say.” – F. Scott Fitzgerald
“The pen is mightier than the sword.” – Edward Bulwer-Lytton
These words of wisdom underscore the transformative power of writing. They remind us that writing isn’t merely a form of communication but a tool for discovery and expression.
Check out Feeling Lost? 10 Pen Quotes by Famous People to Inspire for some inspirational Quotes
National Handwriting Day allows us to rekindle our relationship with handwriting. It’s a day to celebrate the personal touch that makes our scribbles.
