KATHMANDU, JULY14

When was the last time you wrote a handwritten letter? The wonders of the electronic message is undeniable; however, nothing captures a moment like pouring our feelings on a blank piece of paper. In the process of putting thoughts into words and words onto paper, we rediscover our true self – who we are. And writing as art begins from a very early age.

Recalling childhood memories give us a nostalgic feeling; the first scratch of a pencil across the first page of a new notebook.

The tiny table, colourful pencils, books, a long ruler, fragrant eraser, these sweet little things which we hardly remember were the foundation to a better script.

This journey from scratch to script is inspiring, thrilling and exciting. Along the way, we also discover writing as a medium of sharing our feelings and motive to take action. As rightly said by a famous Scottish writer, 'I prefer the pen.

There is something elemental about the glide and flow of nib and ink on paper'. Obviously, the combination of pen and paper gives a much closer connection to writing.

When we jot down, we label our emotions. Labeling is crucial to understanding how we are feeling and why. Sentiment affects almost everyone, everywhere, and is expressed differently. And the interesting way to express is by letting it flow on paper, like a river, swift and strong. Allowing our mind to convey its thought without reservation is a good cognitive exercise to keep the brain sharp and to get rid of negative emotions.

The penmanship approach is considered to be the best way to clarify our goal. Not only does it increase our motivation, but it also makes our dream more concrete. In other words, placing our goals on a piece of paper means placing our trust in action, active yearning.

Unwritten ideas get scattered easily, leaving room for confusion, which may lead to distraction. Distraction destroys our dreams.

In today's email era, transforming our thoughts on paper is extremely rare. A certain amount of intentional effort is required to craft one as it is personal and unique, and thus special.

Similarly, receiving something handwritten is extra special as someone has taken time to think and craft each word.

None of this goes unnoticed.

It's such a good feeling to know someone cares for us, loves us and values us. It's a process of heart-to-heart connection. The loss of this beautiful art is like the loss of a beautiful soul.

There is simplicity in this soulful approach. Writing gives meaning to our life. It is an essential life skill that shouldn't go out of style.

A version of this article appears in the print on July 15 2021, of The Himalayan Times.