National Handwriting Day on January 23rd encourages us to put pen to paper and write out our thoughts. According to the Writing Instrument Manufacturers Association, it is a chance for all to re-explore the purity and power of handwriting.

While technology speeds up the writing process and makes communication more efficient worldwide, there’s something to be said for writing something out longhand. The act of writing with pen and paper is a supremely tactile and patient practice. If it does anything, it forces the body and the mind to slow down and resynchronize.

Whether you’re out of practice or just don't do a lot of writing, today is a good time to share a little handwritten message for the people you come across in your travels.  Here are a few other ideas to try:

• Journal your activities for the day.  
• Write a handwritten letter to a friend, family member or neighbor.
• Write a short story or poem.
• Write out a to-do list.
• Leave a special love note for someone close to you.
• Compliment someone with a handwritten sticky note.
• Pay with a check – if you dare.
• Leave your server a tip and a handwritten word of thanks for their service.