Writing scares a lot of people. Be it thank-you notes, letters, or even journaling for ourselves, many a staid personality has lost composure over the thought of putting pen to paper. It’s unfortunate because writing can be one of the foremost tools in one’s arsenal toward life enrichment. It is one of the simplest ways we can connect to ourselves or those most important to us.
For some, myself included, writing is more than just a means of communication, it has risen to art-form status. And with good reason: Taking pride in writing, and using beautiful tools to do so, reminds us of art and the meaning it can impart.
A distinguished pen or cloudlike sheet of paper can bring out the inner author in us all. You may not be writing a novel anytime soon, but make no mistake, your instruments and your environment can and do have a profound effect on your attitude, which in turn can make or break a great writing experience.
I recently attended the unveiling of Waterman Pens’ latest creation, called Serenite, Collection d’art – a set of four unique writing instruments, of which only 161 sets will be made worldwide.
The collection follows the form of Waterman’s top-of-the-line pen, “Serenite” (French for serenity). Appropriate, since I believe writing can create serenity in life if we let it. According to Waterman, the flagship Serenite Blue is a symbol of purity that “exalts the art of fine writing with its smooth curved body, fine details and luxurious finishes.”
The Serenite Collection D’art continues this tradition as an exclusive set of artfully designed pens, masterfully created by French designers, jewelers and Japanese master craftsmen. The collection consists of four instruments which embody natural elements: feu (fire), terre (earth), eau (water) and air. Each set is painstakingly handcrafted for three months – each one numbered, and no two pens exactly alike. With a $44,000 price tag, this one-of-a- kind luxury is reserved for the lucky few.
Molly Simms, supermodel and actress on NBC’s hit show “Las Vegas,” was on hand to unveil the natural treasures. An avid journaler, she gave insight as to just how powerful writing can be: “I was inspired by the book ‘The Artist’s Way,’ by Martin Scorsese’s wife, Julia Cameron,” she states. “Each morning, I write three pages as soon as I wake up. Just write whatever – you’ll find it’s a stream of consciousness and it’s like therapy.”
Simms began to see the value of writing when making the transition between modeling and acting: “My acting coach gave me a pen and said, ‘You have to learn to write thank-you notes,”‘ chuckles Simms. “A pen is very special … it can make what you’re writing feel special.”
Fashion designer Nicole Miller, also on hand at the unveiling, agrees. “I just started writing with a fountain pen again because my writing looks more interesting with the thick and thin of a fountain pen versus a felt tip. I’ve learned recently it’s poor etiquette to send an e-mail thank- you, and I’m guilty of that,” she confesses, admitting that there’s nothing quite like receiving a handwritten note in your mail. “You always open it first.”
Do not let the price tag, nor the celebrity attraction, lull you into thinking the pleasure of writing is reserved for the elite. Rather, writing can be so pleasurable that trained artisans go to great lengths to create exquisite, yet functional, pieces that sometimes must be handled with white gloves. This fact alone should propel you to at least give it a shot yourself – taking time to create a space for writing to enrich your life.
The beauty, art and therapy of writing is available to everyone. Whether it comes to you naturally or strikes fear in your heart, these simple steps can help you access the power of the written word:
Create a quiet space. Think of this time as being just for you – a respite from the harried obligations of everyday life. Whether it’s just a few minutes to jot a heartfelt thank-you, or a longer space of time to journal or pen a letter to someone you love, find a quiet spot and allow yourself to release the cares of the day, clear your mind and let your inner artist flow. If it helps you get in the mood, light a candle and play your favorite tune.
Be inspired. Waterman is a more than 100-year-old company because it understands writing is a thing of beauty, and beautiful things can inspire. Purchase a stunning pen, high-quality stationery or funky notecards. Use these tools to remember life is more than car pools or business meetings. Acquire high-quality, beautifully designed and wonderful-to-use objects and artful writing can be yours (and a wonderful gift to others).
Let it be. Often we worry about what to say, how to say it. Does it sound right, how’s my grammar? You’d be surprised how great your words sound if you take the pressure off. When journaling, remember this is your time and these are words meant for you. In writing a note or letter, take a hint from many an accomplished writer – practice on scratch paper allowing yourself to make mistakes. Just say what you feel, don’t edit as you go, then read it later and decide what works. Include those words in your “final piece.”
Doni Luckett is chief executive of Divine-Basics.com, which produces lifestyle products to reconnect with moments that matter. Your questions may be addressed in the column by e-mailing enrichyourlife@divine-basics.com.
