The whole concept was geared around speed. The route was direct, despite the obstacle of the Rocky Mountains. Fast horses were purchased. Riders had to be small, suitable for quickness. The original ad called for “Young, skinny, wiry fellows not over 18. Must be expert riders willing to risk death daily. Orphans preferred.” Surprisingly, they had no trouble finding willing young men. Well, you know — teenage boys.

The Pony Express was not a financial success. But it was filled with colorful tales, all in an effort to shorten the time that separated people.

We’ve excelled at that acceleration, haven’t we?

But something has been lost in this race for speed: the handwritten letter. There is something personal about a note in a friend’s actual handwriting. One is connected in a way that makes the speed of a keyboard a poor consolation prize. Think about it – how nice would it be if in your mailbox today was a long letter in sweeping cursive? Don’t we go to get the mail every day hoping for just such a thing?

So for our last Summer Celebration, let’s do that for someone. Let’s sit down with our kids and think of a friend or neighbor who could use a note of encouragement or news. But make it someone within walking or biking distance. That way, we can make our own little Pony Express run — or walk. We’ll slow down the pace a bit.

And perhaps we’ll savor the connection we have with people around us, even if does take more than a second to get to them.