A simple handwritten note: a present of presence

I recently read a book called Slowing Down to the Speed of Joy by Matthew Kelly. The overall message in this book is simple but important, that you will find more joy in your life when you slow down and pay attention to now and to the people around you, rather than continuing the frenetic multi-tasking "busy-ness" that is more typical in our culture. As an artist, creativity seems to naturally grow from more quiet moments, when I take time to just be, and to notice the world around me.

This book reminds me to be more present to those people I am blessed to have in my life. One way to put this into practice is by sending a simple, hand-written note card to friends when they are going through something, or just to let them know I am thinking about them. Your own handwriting is a personal, tangible expression to your friend that you are dedicating a few moments exclusively to them, which is a gift of self, a present of presence. It's a very small way to make a difference, to be more thoughtful, less distracted or scattered. I'm trying to slow down, and in doing so, I truly am finding more peace and indeed, joy!