English writer Edward Bulwer-Lytton was on to something when he coined the phrase "the pen is mightier than the sword" in 1839.
Although digital communication is the more popular form, don’t for a minute believe the hype that traditional writing is outdated. The pen continues to hold significant power as demonstrated in the first week of January when newly elected President Trump, with just a few strokes of his pen, unleashed a flurry of executive orders that are rapidly reshaping the landscape of America.
His signing initiated sweeping policy changes and raised serious concerns that could negatively impact the lives of millions. Policies that threaten to erode civil rights and protections, jeopardize the environment, and introduce economic turbulence for entire communities will have far-reaching effects. If enforced, they will not only uproot families but have the potential to set off a cycle of instability and uncertainty that lingers for years to come.
Unlike digital documents which can be deleted or lost, handwritten documents provide a permanent record, and signing a document with a pen is an act that signifies commitment and agreement. It has been a transformative formality throughout America’s history; a formality with the capability of doing both good and bad.
I'm unhappy with how things are unfolding due to the president's decisions. It’s another example of life's unfairness, and witnessing it disturbs me.
But I stay anchored in gratitude to avoid getting lost in despair and turn to tools in my spiritual toolkit for guidance. During the first week of January, I pulled out Rumi’s poem, The Guest House. The words written by the 13th-century poet are a reminder to use my pen to embrace the things that I don't like by releasing my frustrations onto the blank pages of my journal. Although the poem has several translations, the lines below ground me when I’m unsteady and inspire me when I’m feeling helpless:
This being human is a guest house, every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor. Welcome and entertain them all.
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably. It may be clearing you out for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice, meet them at the door laughing, and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes, because each has been sent, as a guide from beyond.
In the spirit of gratitude, I say “Thank you Rumi for writing The Guest House, a centuries-old poem that has proven the power of the pen. In appreciation, I imbue my pen with power when uninvited guests burst through my door to rob me of my joy.”
I use my pen to bless others. I write prayer blessings for those lives that are being upended as the result of a few strokes of a pen. It’s the least and the best I can do.
I use my pen to cope with change. Writing helps me understand things I dislike. I fear less the things that I understand.
I use my pen to release my anger. I pour out my frustrations onto the blank pages of my journal. Internalizing anger harms my physical and mental well-being.
I use my pen to express forgiveness. I write letters of forgiveness those who seem unaware of the serious consequences that the strokes of their pens can cause. To not forgive is like drinking poison and expecting the wrongdoers to die.
I use my pen to advocate for change. Signing advocacy letters and petitions to elected officials may not change the situation or circumstances, but they change me; I feel good about fulfilling my civic duty.
I use my pen to inform, empower, and inspire others. My blog, social media posts, and morning texts fulfill my dreams of helping individuals put wings on their dreams.
I use my pen as an expression of Gratitude. Each stroke is a “thank you” to the Creator for my gifts and for the desire to share them with others.
There’s no denying that technology has advanced to the point where, within a matter of seconds, a few keystrokes could initiate a cyber war that brings America to a standstill. However, such orders must still be officially signed with a pen. And should that happen, (Lord Help), we would be left with no choice but to revert to pen and paper.
So, the next time you find yourself in a situation that doesn't sit well with you, remember the undeniable power of the pen!
Be Grateful, Be Well, one small change at a time!
Need help empowering your pen? Contact me at smallchange@myrtlerussell.com. Read my weekly small change Tips to Be Well Blog at https://www.myrtlerussell.com/blog. They can be delivered to your email box by subscribing at https://www.myrtlerussell.com/contact.
Comments