Paper…..

I am on a mission to save paper…from extinction. Before the comments start flying, I assert that I respect the environment as much as the next person. As a family we work hard to keep packaging and paper waste to a minimum, recycling every last scrap.

Yet, in the combined rush to save the world and save time, many have forgotten that our goal should be to live in a way that moves the human race forward. I contest that it is impossible to move ourselves to a kinder, gentler time when the only way we communicate is through a screen.

E-vite, e-mail, Facebook and Twitter help us to connect with many whom we wouldn’t otherwise be able to do. I also love that commerce and information may take place in cyberspace at lightning speed. On the minus side is the fact that most of our personal interactions never resemble the personal.

Our children know that a written thank you note must be sent to acknowledge every kind act and gift. At the age of five the note may have read, “Thank you for my gift. From, XXXX”. Later the note takes on a life of its own, filled with the child’s personal statements and unique way of expressing thanks. Danielle may write something funny in her notes and our other daughter will write something very deep. One son will comment on sports and the other will tell you exactly how he is going to use his gift.

The paper calendar is another dinosaur with which I refuse to part. Mine is big enough for me to print in large letters and it may always be found in the same location. This way, no one here can say he or she didn’t know of an upcoming appointment due to a technological snafu.

My mother, like her mother, buys a card for every occasion for each one of us children and grandchildren, 17 people in all. My mom and my aunt send weekly cards to Danielle in while at university, a gentle reminder that she is missed. These cards are a welcome expression of love.

Every handwritten card or invitation sends a message that the recipient is special, that someone took the time to find the paper, the pen, the stamps and the mailbox. It is graciousness in its simplest form.

Those of us living in Northern Westchester are fortunate to have Fine Lines, located at 141 Katonah Avenue, Katonah, NY, (914) 232-4856. The owners, Laura and Barry, carry greeting cards and note cards for every taste and occasion. They are experts in creating the perfect invitation and announcement and have a wide array of paper styles from which to choose. So go ahead, send a card and make someone’s day!