Letter #23

Letter writing topic for January 23, 2010:

In January 1737, John Hancock was born. He was the first person to sign the U. S. Declaration of Independence in 1776. His signature was bold and beautifully written. In fact, the name "John Hancock" has become synonymous with "signature." For example, someone might say, "Put your 'John Hancock' right here," meaning "sign your name right now."

In honor of John Hancock's January birthday, the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association sponsors National Handwriting Day every Jan. 23.

According to the WIMA Web site,

"The lost art of handwriting is one of the few ways we can uniquely express ourselves. There’s something poetic about grasping a writing instrument and feeling it hit the paper as your thoughts flow through your fingers and pour into words. So, WIMA suggests you take advantage of National Handwriting Day on Jan. 23 and use a pen or a pencil to rekindle that creative feeling through a handwritten note, poem, letter or journal entry.

Handwriting allows us to be artists and individuals during a time when we often use computers, faxes and e-mail to communicate. Fonts are the same no matter what computer you use or how you use it. Fonts lack a personal touch. Handwriting can add intimacy to a letter and reveal details about the writer’s personality. Throughout history, handwritten documents have sparked love affairs, started wars, established peace, freed slaves, created movements and declared independence.

"Though computers and e-mail play an important role in our lives, nothing will ever replace the sincerity and individualism expressed through the handwritten word," said David H. Baker, WIMA's Executive Director.

The purpose of National Handwriting Day is to alert the public to the importance of handwriting. According to WIMA, National Handwriting Day is a chance for all of us to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting."

Today, in honor of National Handwriting Day, write a letter in your very best handwriting. And, be sure to wish your letter recipient a Happy Handwriting Day.