We are the same people
Time is only a record of how creative we got about reaching out to each other. The message is still the same.
Technology changes. People? Not so much. Our tools have massively evolved, but the desire to connect is still the same. Because fundamentally, throughout centuries, we remain the same kind of people.
As humans, we are fundamentally relational with a neurobiological "design" to build and maintain connections.
When I read a woman's message to her husband dated from 1870BC, it sounded surprisingly familiar. I bet she experienced anxiety and worries when she sent it, the same way we feel today when we worry about our loved ones. At least, our messages are delivered in seconds, and it doesn't take six weeks for a caravan to get to the other side. No wonder she is nagging, having to wait that long! We all get it.
Here is the thing. Why is it that the abundance of technology makes us feel more superior? These are not "clay" people; they are just people. If all that's changed is our tools and capacity to process information, I am not so sure. (the second fact is disputable as scientists have claimed that relying on technology makes us more stupid).
Now, imagine this: overseeing a 300-donkey-long caravan (equivalent to possibly 2km), carrying gold and silver, goods, people, weapons. It's a massive operation to ensure that this "living train" is safe and sound during a journey of 6 weeks through rough terrain and harsh weather. I have great respect for THAT LEADER. Good luck to anyone today that dares to attempt the trip.
We should strip away most of our biases. Let's not forget that after all that we are really the same kind of people. Even when the text will be delivered directly to our heads (it's happening sooner than we think).
p.s.
Technology is just a means to connect. The capacity to use it belongs to humans. Time is only a record of how creative we got about reaching out to each other. The message is still the same. And we are the same kind of people.
Here is a link to the article, published on BBC:
https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20210111-the-secret-letters-of-historys-first-businesswomen