I’m searching for a mint green typewriter.
Why you may ask? Don’t you have a computer?
Yes, I do have a computer, and a phone, and many other pieces of technology. But, think about the last time you tried to write something quickly. You have a deadline, you have to send this program to print or this chapter to the editor, and the next thing you know you’re googling “everything you should know about the eclipse” or “10 reasons why everyone should listen to Taylor Swift’s new single.”
When was the last time you were still in your thoughts?
Not distracted by other ideas, websites, or social media. A stillness that lasted long enough to weave together the pieces of your mind into words that would speak from your soul? And you actually finished typing one whole idea instead of pausing mid sentence to google that other idea you wanted to learn about earlier, only to feel your phone buzz as you are reading the first article, alerting you to yet another email from a blog you subscribed to months ago that you never read anymore.
Can you think of one still moment?
A stillness that lasted long enough to weave together the pieces of your mind into words that would speak from your soul.
I want to use a typewriter for those moments I don’t want to be distracted by the instant gratification that is technology and the internet. For the moments that I want to be free in my mind, to write, to cross out, to watch my thought progression play out rather than erasing every other sentence because it’s not good enough and no one will want to read it (am I right?).
I want to use a typewriter for those moments when my hands just won’t write fast enough to keep up with the flow of my thoughts.
I want a typewriter so I can slow down. So the “ability to work in a fast-paced environment” doesn’t have to be a part of my all day every day.
And, let’s be honest, I didn’t name this blog This Old Soul just to have a cool name.
I am an old soul.
And I also like the color mint, so it’s a win win.
The old soul in me craves the quiet, the stillness, of my mind. I realize this is an intimidating idea for some. To be alone with your thoughts, truly alone. My generation struggles with this because we are constantly bombarded by the ideas of others and so to have a thought, an idea, feel original and completely ours is an anomaly.
But, what if we allowed ourselves that stillness?
What if we slowed down, stopped, and listened to our thoughts?
Maybe, just maybe, we would have more compassion for others.
More kindness for those who are hurting or in need.
More time to talk with family and friends.
More time to write complete thoughts on our typewriter.
So long as it’s mint green.
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