Time seems to become more valuable to me as I age. As if I’m finally realizing I have a limited amount of it to accomplish all the earth stuff assigned to me. So, I’m wary of the time-wasters. And, seriously, what could waste more time than a narcissistic blog? Facebook, perhaps. Or maybe Twitter, which I haven’t succumbed to yet.
But, when I read about the great men and women of the past, I find a common theme among them. Most devoted a few hours every morning to prayer and Bible reading. Then, they sat down with quill and parchment and spent another few hours “at their letters.” These folks achieved some great things in life, such as founding our nation. Yet they found time to write long, thoughtful letters to loads of people. Maybe the writing of letters actually helped formulate their thoughts on weighty matters. Certainly it helped teach them the art of writing.
I’m not sure updating my Facebook status equates. Yet, computer time seems to have become my version of being at my letters. After I’ve prayed, and read, and walked on the treadmill, I’m always ready to check my email and respond to a few electronic letters. (or maybe write a blog). This little exercise seems to help me, especially on days like this one where the to-do list spills over the edges of the day and into the evening.
So, I’ve taken a few minutes now to send out these words. It may have been an exercise in self-indulgence. But it reminds me that among my callings as wife, mother, grandmother, office manager, and mentor I am still at heart a writer.
Oh, I like this thought! That blogging is similar to spending time at our letters! What a nice way to put it. You should point to this post as a reason why writers should blog. I’m going to do that right now – on Twitter!
I love this post! I remember you mentioning the phrase “at their letters”, but your explanation makes it such a good thing to ponder — and to do! Thanks for taking the time to be “at your letters” this morning! And thanks for sharing it with us!