Handwriting and Penmanship
A few weeks ago, I received a beautiful handwritten letter from a friend in Virginia. It was such a nice surprise and I enjoyed reading it. I especially appreciated her penmanship as I read the kind words she wrote about this blog. It made me think of the lost art of handwriting.
When I was in elementary school, I had several lessons on writing including penmanship and composition. I still remember the cursive practice pages with the solid and dotted lines to help the writer develop proper form. I took pride in the art and practice of my handwriting. In high school and college, the function of “long hand” writing seemed to make note taking easier and quicker than printing. My notes looked differently than those of my friends because each of our script was unique. You could actually identify the writers by their handwriting, for the good or not so good.
Both of my sons had little education on the mechanical aspects of writing. I think there was a realization that computers were the main means of communication and the curriculum needed to reflect this. I understand and agree, but I have to admit that I am sad to see that neither of my kids use cursive writing, they print. I get it, I just do not like it.
When I developed Parkinson’s, I was very upset that my handwriting became impossible to read. One of the symptoms of PD is micrographia which is the medical term for small handwriting. The words are close together and the letters are tiny. Sentences look cramped and smooshed together. In fact, one of the initial tests that neurologists do to diagnose Parkinson’s Disease is a writing test. The statement I wrote at the doctor’s office began as normal, but the words got smaller and unrecognizable by the end. It was like starting with one font size and changing to a substantially smaller one. My brain could not control my hands. Very frustrating.
Over the years, my treatment plan has been successful in helping me regain some of my handwriting skills. I feel so fortunate to be able to hand write a note, a check or a gift tag. There are still days when my will is greater than my skill, but most of the time I can at least put my personal touch on a card. I treasure this ability and never take it for granted.
Technology is wonderful. After all, this blog is a result of the wonderful world of computers. And it is technology that allows me to do my banking and shopping online which is invaluable for those days when I do not want to drive. And then there are the times when I cannot press the keys on my cell phone to text because my tremors are tremoring, but I can dictate my message. This has been a lifesaver for staying in touch with friends and family. Come to think of it, how did I manage before all this was available to me? I guess we always do fine when that is all we know, but in this case, I hope to keep on writing the old-fashion way!
