In this modern computer age we can easily express our thoughts and emotions quickly, effortlessly and pretty inexpensively with just a few key strokes. One may wonder why bother sending a greeting card through the old snail mail anymore. There are numerous reasons why the "old fashioned" birthday card should still be your birthday wish method of choice.

Who doesn't have a fond memory of receiving a birthday card in the mail from a friend or relative? The joy and surprise you feel far outweigh the meager cost of the card and a stamp. Not only does the card provide immediate joy and satisfaction for the recipient, but it can be proudly displayed on a dresser, coffee table or mantle for all to enjoy and as a constant reminder that someone cares about you.

Another reason that a real birthday greeting card is best is that is can be stuffed with money or a gift card to help the birthday girl or boy (of any age) to purchase a gift to celebrate their special day, you can't do that with an e-card! (Yet anyway!)

Senior citizens in particular, look forward with anticipation to their birthday greeting card. It is a tangible way for them to know that someone still cares that they are alive and that the fact they were born is important. It warms their heart to know the grandchild who may live too far away visit actually took the time to go to the store and choose and send a birthday card especially for them. Maybe they even included a much desired photo for the grandparent to show off and brag about to their friends and neighbors or even the mail carrier.

Another benefit to birthday greeting cards is that they continue to bring joy for many years after they are given. They are often stored in a file cabinet, drawer or photo album. When the receiver of the cards happens upon them many years later, they are reminded not only of the warm feelings and memories of receiving the birthday card, but also all the warm memories they have of that person. That long past birthday party, the family gathering, the delicious cake, were all relived in a moment by the simple gesture of sending a birthday card.

We have made immense progress with the computers and the internet, but nothing takes the place of a lovingly sent birthday card found in the mailbox to brighten that special day and spark warm memories for years to come. Even a birthday card that might have been chosen in a hurry can make a difference for many years to come as the intention of sending love and acknowledging the uniqueness of the recipient and the importance of their birth is remembered.

Hopefully real birthday greeting cards will continue to be around for many more years to come and will continue to bring much needed joy and comfort in their acknowledgement of a special day.