By Mariana Hladik
Social distancing and keeping screen time to a minimum seem like a rather impossible challenge when it comes to staying connected with family and friends. While we are blessed to have the technology to call, message or video chat with anyone, anywhere, and at any time, now might just be the time to explore another means of communication – the art of letter writing.
There is a simple joy in receiving a handwritten letter in the post – a personal note written just for you. You know that when you receive a letter, there has been a little more time, effort and care in sending it through to you. These letters of love and care so very often become treasures and keepsakes. They are a physical reminder of the memories and events from the past and present - a time capsule of the person’s thoughts, feelings and activities. When I receive even the smallest letter – ink on paper – it can brighten my whole day in a way that a text message cannot.
Letter writing is an art that we have very much left aside for other advance communication. However, now that we have more time on our hands, why not make the extra effort and explore this option?
If you have kids at home, suggest that they write their school friends and become ‘pen pals’ as a way to talk about their holidays, time home-schooling or share something about their day. It will be another opportunity to stay connected in this time of isolation, while benefiting their writing and spelling skills (win win!). Or, have them create cards and write notes to their grandparents and as an alternative to the home visits. I know personally that a handwritten letter or card from my son to his grandparents always puts a smile on their faces – it’s a little way to show them that they are loved, missed and cared for.
Treat yourself to some beautiful or personalised stationary, grab your favourite pen and send some joy into a loved ones’ letterbox.
P.S. Remember to time stamp your letter with the date!