Writing letters is really telling little stories of our life. They are little stories we share with whoever is on the receiving end. And what a gift a handwritten letter is for anyone to receive.
With all the personal distancing restrictions in place around the world, we’ve all been adjusting to life separated from those who mean so much to us: family, friends, loved ones, and our colleagues.
For those of you who have followed my blog, you know that letter-writing has always been dear to my heart. Writing letters truly brings me joy. So it’s no surprise at how delighted I am that others, during these times of isolation, are either picking up the pen for the first time or rekindling their acquaintance with writing letters. On Twitter, there is a group in the UK who are putting out daily writing prompts to assist those just getting started with letter-writing; a great inspiration-boost for those not sure what to write.
I’ve said this in the past and have written about it here, though it’s worth repeating. Letter-writing is like making a gift with your own hands because frankly, it is a gift. The only difference is that instead of being wrapped up in a box and wrapping paper, your gift is being sent in an envelope. And what a treasure that gift is — ask anyone who has recently received a handwritten letter.
As you may notice on one of the photos, I occasionally doodle on the envelopes — one of the side effects of having extra time during the pandemic. Sometimes I write a little quote on the reverse of the envelope. Recently on the back of the envelope of a letter I sent to my step-mom, I wrote out a cute little one-liner joke that I knew she’d get a hearty laugh over.
That shifts to the other aspect that brings me joy in writing letters. I love the feeling I get when I’ve completed a letter. It’s more than mere satisfaction; it’s a deeper sense of tranquility I experience. And, as in the case of that little one-liner added to the envelope, I get a sustained sense of excitement imagining the joy it delivers to the lucky recipient.
During lockdown, it’s easy to feel consumed by all the negative things going on. However, by randomly performing acts of kindness — in this case surprising someone with a letter — you’ll not only boost their mood, but yours too. — Lisa Waldon
“I write letters to touch someone else’s heart.” – Diane Schuller
Shortly after you composed this, Kathy and I received a hand printed letter from our youngest grandchildren (4 & 8 yrs) in Ladysmith. It was the highlight of our day. Needless to say we sent hand printed replies ASAP and hope to hear from them again.
Lionel
such exquisite photos you’ve captured and i like the soft grey of each one.
as i read what you wrote, i thought about my grandmothers and how our current social distancing wouldn’t be much, if any change for them. if they were here now, they’d be asking, “what’s new about that?”
our world has truly become so small and i think that’s one reason why it’s been so difficult for some people. we are a spoiled world.