Write that Letter

Summary

The text advocates for the personal and societal impact of writing and sending hand-written letters, emphasizing their value in affirming personal worth and influencing social change.

Abstract

The article "Write that Letter" underscores the profound impact that hand-written letters can have on individuals and society. It shares anecdotes of how such letters serve as powerful reminders of one's abilities and contributions, as seen in the example of a friend who treasures a note from her former boss. The piece reflects on the historical significance of letters, citing Eleanor Roosevelt's influential letter that challenged racial discrimination. It encourages readers to consider the meaningful effect their own letters could have, drawing on the author's experience of writing to political leaders for social justice causes. The article suggests that in an era dominated by electronic communication, a hand-written letter stands out and can significantly influence the recipient's sense of self and potential.

Opinions

The author believes in the enduring value of hand-written letters for personal affirmation and societal influence.
It is suggested that reading positive messages in letters can counteract negative internal and external messages, such as sexism in the workplace.
The author posits that a hand-written letter in today's digital age can have a greater impact due to its rarity and personal touch.
The article implies that letters can serve as historical documents and tools for social change, as demonstrated by Eleanor Roosevelt's letter regarding Marian Anderson's performance.
It is conveyed that writing letters can be an act of living out one's convictions, particularly in the realm of social justice.
The author encourages the practice of letter writing as a means of focusing on someone's potential and possibilities, thereby providing encouragement and support.

Write that Letter

That’s right. Go ahead and send a hand-written letter.

A friend of mine told me recently that she kept a note from her former boss outlining the way he viewed her talents and potential as a leader.

She reads it from time to time to remind herself, despite sexism in the workplace and internal self-doubting messages, that she is a highly competent leader that continues to make huge contributions in her sphere of influence.

We all carry such letters. I have a small box of letters gathered over the decades from my parents, former patients, and leaders I have coached. I read them occasionally to both celebrate the past as well as remind myself of the ways that others valued my person and contribution.

Although hand-written letters seem to be an artifact of the past, consider the impact they will have on the recipients in today’s world of instant electronic communications.

The great letter writer in a previous generation was Eleanor Roosevelt. Reflect on the impact of her communication to the Daughter’s of the American Revolution. She wrote to resign from their organization after they refused to allow singer Marian Anderson, an African American, to perform in their venue in Washington DC.

Instead Ms. Roosevelt lobbied for Ms. Anderson to perform a free recital on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial before a crowd of 75,000 people.

Her letter and act put the issue of racial discrimination at front and center in the national debate.

Imagine the impact of a letter that you write, especially by hand and sent through the US or other Postal Service to a co-worker, family member, or friend. This will be especially true if that letter has a positive message focusing on the person’s potential or possibilities.

I remember a time when I gathered with a group of socially conscious people and wrote hand-written letters to the prime minister of South Africa advocating for the release of political prisoners like Nelson Mandela. I really don’t know whether the letters were read but I did feel that I was acting on my convictions about social justice.

Letter writing matters