A piece of kindness
As our technology increases, you may have heard rumblings that sending cards is a thing of the past. We respond to that by issuing this challenge: Is it more meaningful to get a text or email, or to have something you can physically hold and appreciate the work that has gone into it? Let’s face it, electronic greetings take mere seconds or minutes. Conversely, if you open a card either received in the mail or in person, you have the tactile experience along with the realization that someone has either selected or created this greeting especially for you. Let’s think about that for a moment.
I use technology as much as the next person. It’s great for replying on the go, or communicating for work purposes, or even a quick greeting on social media - but let’s face it, it lacks personality. When I want to create a positive impact and brighten someone’s day, I prefer a handmade card. Handmade cards are little pieces of artwork that can be fun, bright, cheerful, or a serious tone if the occasion calls for that. The texture, color, and essence of something handmade, imperfections and all, is a different sense of receiving.
That is the essence of handmade. There’s never another like it. In turn, that handmade art is going to a unique person, who is one of a kind also. There’s a connection there that transcends modern convenience. It’s a connection we should never lose, lest we all become robotic, pushing buttons on our device of choice.
Beyond the practice of giving these greetings personally, there’s something to be said for this practice in the professional world. Small heart-centered businesses are the logical choice for sending a meaningful greeting to the customer, but it goes far beyond that. Think of that big pet supplier that sends a birthday card to your pet based on your pet’s profile. You may get a sympathy card or even flowers if your beloved pet dies. That’s a company that has put his finger (or paw) on the pulse of something meaingful to pet owners.
What if we all did that, applying it to our individual situations? What if our personal trainers gave us encouragement through cards? How about business owners who recognize their faithful customers? That possible lead that you met at a trade show or networking event might appreciate an additional point of contact. Could you imagine of even the mundane and routine things in life were recognized with something beyond an email (if that?)
The point is, just as in creating art, to think outside the box. Your creations matter to others. If it makes them smile or have a better day, you’ve done something invaluable. Don’t we need more of that?
Think of the possibilities of recognition, remembrance, and above all, kindness. Always choose kindness, in whatever medium feels right.
Wishing you a peaceful day full of inspiration - and kindness.
Wendy
