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Writing Through the Ages
Hi, everyone! I’m so excited to share a recap of the 11:11 Surprise Special Show I co-hosted with Everton (aka Truth Prophet) on HolisticRadio.org. If you didn’t catch it live, don’t worry, you can still listen back! I promise it’s worth it. We dove into one of my favourite topics: the history, power, and art of writing. It’s such a vast, fascinating subject, and we only scratched the surface.
A Fascinating Journey Through History
Everton and I started by looking at the origins of writing. I’ve always been intrigued by the journey from early cave art and pictographs to the complex systems we know today. Everton did an amazing job describing the evolution of ancient scripts, from Mesopotamian cuneiform and Egyptian hieroglyphs to Chinese pictographs.
I added some of my own research, including a recent breakthrough where a cryptologist cracked parts of the Indus Valley script. Did you know this script and cuneiform developed around the same time, roughly 3300 BCE? There’s even debate about whether these two civilizations influenced each other! Both used similar symbols and materials, like clay tablets, to record their ideas.
What stood out most to me is how much ancient writing systems were connected, whether through trade, shared symbols, or even architecture. It makes you wonder: how much of history have we misinterpreted? What did these early cultures know that we’re only just rediscovering?
Why Writing Matters
The history was fascinating, but what really got me excited was talking about the power of writing. As a calligrapher, I feel deeply connected to this art form, and it’s so much more than just putting words on paper. Writing by hand engages both sides of the brain, which helps with creativity, memory, and focus.
There’s even science to back it up! Handwriting activates multiple regions of the brain and taps into something called the reticular activating system, which helps us process and remember information. It’s like giving your brain a little workout every time you pick up a pen!
I shared how writing, especially calligraphy, can be a kind of therapy. The act of slowing down, forming each letter with care, and putting your thoughts onto paper is incredibly grounding. When I create a piece, I feel like I’m infusing my energy into the words. Writing isn’t just communication; it’s connection. And it’s something we’re losing in our fast-paced, digital world.
Let’s Keep Handwriting Alive
One of my favourite parts of the show was when Andy (aka Zen Pagan) suggested starting a pen pal club. Imagine a community where we write letters by hand, snap a photo of them, and share them online. It’s such a brilliant idea! Combining the personal touch of handwriting with modern technology. I could feel everyone’s excitement when he brought it up, and honestly, I think I need to make it happen!
Everton and I also talked about the importance of preserving the art of writing. Whether it’s through calligraphy, journaling, or letter writing, we need to keep these practices alive. Writing by hand is such a powerful tool for creativity, mindfulness, and self-expression. Plus, it’s just plain fun!
Join the Conversation
If any of this resonates with you, I’d love for you to listen back to the show. Everton and I had such a great time diving into the history of writing and reflecting on what it means today.
So, what do you think? Has writing played an important role in your life? How do you use it to express yourself or connect with others? Let’s keep the conversation going, and as Everton and I said on the show, “Let’s get drumming, let’s get writing!” I can’t wait to hear your thoughts—and maybe even see some of your handwritten creations!
