Holiday Greetings

***  Disclaimer - This blog is a reflection of my own opinions and beliefs.  It is in no way meant to offend, insult, or upset anyone who sends me the types of cards I am describing.  ***

I don’t think it’s an overstatement or an exaggeration of any kind to say that computers and the internet have changed our lives.

And I’m not just talking about making the world smaller or more accessible or faster and more convenient.  I’m talking about the computer’s trickle-down-effect that has extended its reach to holiday cards.

Every year, I receive an increasing number of  digital photo cards.  A family portrait or pictures of the children, sealed and delivered in all their glossiness with a generic message of joy and happiness at this time of year.  And the photo cards I receive are exactly the same cards a next-door neighbor or colleague receives.  And that’s the part that bothers me.

There’s no personalization.  There’s no special greeting specifically for my family and I.  When I open an envelope and find a generic, digital card inside, I feel like I’m opening an advertisement for the World Wildlife Fund.  I feel no personal connection to a mass-produced, mass-mailed holiday card.

Children are growing up with limited knowledge regarding the art of sending mail.

Instead it’s text messages, e-cards, and voicemail that are supposed to take the place for thank you notes, letters, and cards. 

Not me.  Call me old-fashioned, but I think there’s something special about opening an envelope and knowing that the contents inside were chosen just for me.  So, I addressed, stamped, and sealed my holiday cards myself.  I filled the slot on the front of the card with a picture of my son standing in front of a snowman.  And inside each card, I wrote a personal message tailored to the person opening the envelope.  My neighbor, my former boss, and my friend all received different sentiments because I have different relationships with them.  

Maybe you want me to remember that the important part is just receiving a card in the first place.  And I admit, it is nice to see holiday cards around the living room.  But, I want more.  I want a heartfelt, personal holiday card adorning my living room.

*** To all my readers, I wish you a happy holiday season filled with laughter, love, hugs, and hot cocoa!   ***