A Letter

From The Desk Of

Patrick Ball

Cherished friends,

During this COVID-19 lockdown, social distancing has allowed us to return to the basics; reading, writing, and arithmetic. Me, I'm learning to read music, write out chords, and work out the mathematical patterns to play guitar. Music is a very calming influence. It's also a lot of fun when you can recreate a recognizable tune. And now, to add to the confusion, I'm learning to play the ukulele. Check out Ukulele Mike on YouTube. What have you been up to lately?

One primary skill that has gone by the wayside is writing a letter. The acceptance of email, text messaging, and Facetime videos has made it too easy to throw a few emojis or partially spelled words in a message and hit send. Being a valued friend, I'm using this ancient medium to close our social distance gap. There is something therapeutic about the process of putting your thoughts on paper. But the real question is this, Is it worth mailing a single letter? Or will it simply be tossed aside? Reading this letter, are you concerned about the battery in your tablet or smartphone going dead? No. See, I've already dispelled a fear.

Baseball, my favorite spring sport, is currently on hold. Admittedly, I'm guilty. Instead of immersing myself in all the negative news on TV, smartphones, and tablets, I've been watching MLB Networks replay of All-Time Games. What's missing? The pivotal ingredient that makes watching sports a compelling pastime - is the suspense of what “could” happen. No problem, if you can't remember just search Google for the stats of the game you're watching. Nevertheless, listening to the rhythms of a ball game playing in the background while taking a nap is restorative.

Finally, in this disturbing time, for a calming influence and a voice of reason, may I suggest asking Siri or saying, "Hey, Google Play the Thomas Jefferson Hour Podcast." I've listened to this program for many years; it's excellent.

Be safe, keep the faith, enjoy the spring blooms, and if you are so compelled, write a letter.

All our love,

Patrick & Lori Ball

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