Nothing Can Take the Place of Handwritten Cards and Letters

I was doing some deep cleaning recently and came across a card that my dear friend, Barbara, sent me fourteen years ago. It was an incredibly challenging time in my life, and the kind words she wrote on that card were especially touching and appreciated.

My friend’s thoughtfulness reminded me I wasn’t alone. A text or social media message would have been less effective.

About eight years ago, a former coworker, Kim, posted on Facebook that she won a special award at work. Kim was undergoing treatment for lung cancer at that time. Instead of merely commenting on her post, I decided to send her a card of congratulations through the mail.

A few days later, Kim posted on my Facebook page that she’d received the card and that it was like a breath of fresh air.

Kim passed away about a year later. I am so thankful I took the time to send her that card!

Just over a year ago, one of my aunts passed away. Since her passing, my family and I have been cleaning out her house. We have been delighted to find numerous letters written to my grandmother by my uncle when he was a United States Air Force member in the late 1960s.

I am thankful my grandmother kept those letters. Holding them in my hands and reading them gives me a glimpse into my family’s past.

In addition to my uncle’s letters, we’ve come across many cards my grandmother received in the mail. Some of them were sent by people who wanted to thank her for a gift she had given them. Others were sent to her by people who wanted to let her know they were praying for her when she was ill.

Reading those cards gives me a better idea of how my grandmother lived and what she meant to those around her.

I have yet to research the statistics on the subject, but I know people don’t send handwritten cards and letters like they did in generations past. Many people seem to think texts and social media messages and comments can replace real cards and letters.

I’m afraid I have to disagree with this way of thinking. Email, texts, or social media comments cannot replace handwritten cards and letters. I am not implying we should never use these modern forms of communication. They have their place.

There is something special, however, about receiving a handwritten letter in the mail or a card that someone took the time to find and write unique words in.

I will always have stationary and greeting cards on my desk ready to be filled out at all times to send to anyone who may need some kind words or encouragement. Beloved reader, I encourage you to do the same.

Please use your writing skills to remind others how much they mean to you. Use your skills to write unique words within cards and letters to show others how special they are and perhaps help them through a difficult time.

Moreover, someone years from now may find your card or letter and be inspired by your words. Is there a better way to use your talent?

Thank you for reading! I truly appreciate all my readers!