I hate Hallmark.

Well, no, I don't really hate them. I just hate the wake of paper that they leave behind them.

Remember, once upon a time, when people used to write letters and cards with actual heart-felt thoughts that they took time to compose?

Well, now the good folks at Hallmark and all those other 'card for any occasion' people make life easier for everyone. You simply purchase and sign your name.

Now, I like that convenience as much as anyone else, BUT it does NOT make it worth keeping the card forever. A name on the bottom of a generic thought-of-the-day card does not signify anything other than the fact that someone remembered your special day. Keep that marvelous thought and for pete's sake GET RID OF THE PAPER!

If someone takes the time to write a nice, long, personal message, by all means, put that card in your Memory Box for future reference.

For most of us, though, the greater number of cards we receive consist of a quick name on the bottom of a Hallmark at the usual holidays. Those pieces of paper are not worth keeping as a memory. Keep'em where you can marvel at the beauty of the art and the kindness of the giver for a week... at most.

Then, keep the thought and pitch the card (into a recycling bin... save a tree, please) so that you keep your space empty and your heart full!

Ya know, Hallmark offers free e-cards... all the thoughts, but no paper!