When was the last time you wrote a letter or a thank-you note? No, not an email, a text message or a business letter but an actual pen to paper correspondence that you sent in the mail. A Dear Aunty, Grandma, Family or Friend production filled with news and anecdotes. A card that simply said you are thinking about the other person.
Writing on paper, with a pen does have its draw backs. There is no delete or back space key to make corrections to your written thought process as you write. There isn't a function that tells you when you have made a spelling error or your grammar needs some work.
Adding inserts to sentences, thoughts, paragraphs or pictures are looked after with symbols such as “^” to add a word. An arrowed line with a “*” to the side of the page denotes you are adding an afterthought. All these things that make is personal will be seen by the recipient.
The reality is hand written letters take time and effort. When they are finished they need an envelope, a stamp and a trip to the post office or mail box. They then take days to reach the person you were writing, rather than the click of a button that would result in them having it in seconds.
Believe it or not, snail mail, as it is called, is heartwarming. It tells us that someone took time from their day to send their news or say hello. Regardless of the size or shape, it will garner a smile when the mail arrives and an envelope is found with a hand written address on it.
The tradition of writing letters and notes needs to be resurrected. It is not only a form of contact, but it is also a way for all generations to use skills that are not always taught in schools any more. Spelling and penmanship to name a few.
This so called old fashioned form of communication is fast becoming a lost art. Put a smile on someone’s face. Take the time to get in touch with them through this time honoured tradition.