Taking time to physically write can change a life when it’s read by the right person. Why do I write songs and longer posts? Why do I do so on paper first, then type them up?
One of the greatest imageries of the importance of hand writing a message, in my opinion, comes from a book by Susan Forward, PHD:
“…I believe that holding a pen and putting the words on paper can take the writer more deeply inside, and move her truths from her hand, through her arm, to her heart.”
This is a beautiful way to explain how I feel when I write a song, blog post, letter, etc. To me, when you take time to write how you’re feeling, there’s a depth that can’t be reached when speaking. The practice of putting pen to paper creates a level of intimacy that face to face conversation doesn’t, for both the writer and the reader. It provides a vehicle for true understanding. Reading the words on a page affords the opportunity to analyze the meaning, to truly focus in on the chosen words, to fully “listen” to the words, process them, and formulate an emotion about what’s been written. Often, these emotions spark action.
Does the message always come across perfectly? No, of course not. But even the smallest and most ineloquent of efforts in text can convey more meaning than shouting your thoughts from the rooftops.
My theory for why this happens is simple: Writing takes more time. It takes more thought. It requires physical supplies. It takes more effort.
Thus, any musings I put into words in long format like this, or in more complicated ones such as a song, are ones of depth. I pour my emotions, lessons learned, wishes and dreams onto the page. Vulnerability put into practice is difficult, but when writing the intrusive thoughts, I am brave enough to practice the skill.
When I put pen to paper, then give it to you, it’s my way of communicating from my heart, to my arm, to my hand, to the page, [to my computer, piano, etc,] then to your eyes and ears. It is up to you to accept the gift, and share it with others. Those of you who choose to find solace in my written (and then spoken) words, thank you. When the vulnerable gift is received and accepted, you help build a culture of honesty and depth of empathy and understanding. Writing is important. You reading is important. Together, we can improve our worlds.
