I really resonate with the chapter titled “The Manila Envelope.” When I was growing up, my mom would keep all my assignments, tests, report cards, and artwork. If there was work of mine that had to be returned back to school, my mom would make a paper copy of it. If my childhood artwork pertains to a holiday, my mom puts it up during that season. Ornaments made by my sister and I as children still go up on our Christmas tree every year; in fact, that is primarily what our Christmas tree has all over it.
Honestly, I am quite conflicted on my opinion as to whether or not I feel that a digital or paper version of one’s personal life moments is better. I love the sentimental value of being able to hold something; however, I know that it also has the ability to be ruined because of it’s physicality, which is what is a positive about storing personal safekeepings digitally. I like how Watters says, “a digital envelope is more easily accessible, duplicable, durable, and sharable” (Watters 9). For me, this sentence shows why a digital envelope is a blessing and curse. Yes, it is easy to access on a computer and more durable; however, the ability to duplicate and share easily is concerning to me as far as online safety. I think that if someone truly wants a digital envelope rather than a manila envelope, they must take the proper safety precautions when doing so.
