Sometimes, "going old school" can be just the ticket.
When my father died a couple of years ago, I received a lovely card from an old colleague/friend of mine. We hadn’t been connected in many years. There were no bad feelings. It was just one of those things you know? I sent her a note in response to thank her and when I mailed it, I said to my love, “We are going to be penpals now. Just watch. I’m sure of it.” A week later I received another card from her and we were on our way.
We have written to each other regularly since then and it is one of the activities I look forward to the most. By that I mean I look forward to sitting on my deck or in my sunroom, writing whatever comes to me, having the space to be vulnerable and receiving her letters that describe so beautifully, her life experiences and adventures.
My dear friend is an English teacher in a clinical day school. She works hard. She is a healer, a tag sale shopper, a jokester, a generous, wise, beautiful soul. She sees things in others. She truly sees each and every person she encounters. She really listens. Everyone should get an opportunity to meet her.
Truth be told, I am a letter writer. With confidence I can say that I have always enjoyed sending cards and letters to let all the people I love, know that I love them.
So I started thinking about the art of letter writing in this new normal of the global pandemic in which we find ourselves.
Think about it. How much fun is it to receive a hand written note from a friend or family member? To have someone take the time to share their story and ask us about our story. What a beautiful, mindful way to connect. And we are hard-wired for connection my friends! It’s in our genetic heritage to remain with the pack so we can stay safe. There truly is safety in numbers.
So I challenge you to be deliberate. Grab a piece of paper and a pen. Be mindful. Slow down. Enjoy the ritual. Pour a cup of tea, sit down and settle in. Start with just one letter. Check in on someone. Share of yourself and your story. Notice what that feels like. The whole thing.
It’s the least expensive activity you can do and it provides enormous payback.