As we have been weeks into social distancing imposed by the COVID-19 virus, I have heard stories of people watching hours of Netflix and Youtube. Unable to spend time with loved ones in person, we are immersing ourselves in technology. 

We are scheduling Zoom calls, Skype and Facetime with family and friends. Searching Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for stories and pictures of what is going on in others lives.

I am going to be frank and say, this is not good for our well-being. We are social creatures and need connection.

So, how can we connect yet remain apart?
I am going to propose an old concept.

Letter writing.

When was the last time you sent a letter?
How long has it been since you received a letter?

This is quite an extraordinary time in our history. It is a time we are not spending with friends and family, but are spending time surrounded by four walls and no real connection- other than social media.

This weekend, I rummaged through old pictures of our family preparing for my son’s graduation. In the box, I found an old letter. I opened it anxiously wanting to read it. 

Reading the letter brought back memories. It brought me to a place and time in my life in which I forgot. The letter held some permanence to me, unlike an email or text.

Letters can share great revelations, sweet thoughts, beliefs, and preserve a time for others who open it. Rattling through a box of letters from the past can provide discovery of who the person was, what was happening, and give meaning. 

I then began to reflect on why I should put pen to paper and write a letter. 

Think of the last time you received a letter. How did you feel?

There is something special about getting something personal in the mail. Most of the time, we are receiving junk mail or bills- so it is exciting to get a note. 

The time and consideration that goes into sending a letter – in this highly digital world- conveys thoughtfulness. It is also wonderful to sit at your desk and pick up a pen to write words to another. There is a warm feeling in the giving. 

Five reasons you should write a letter:

1 It is fun!

Handwriting stimulates our creative side. It encourages you to explore your thoughts and creativity. You can be whimsical in your writing and even experiment with doodles, drawings and fun colors.

2 You create mindfulness.

Handwriting creates a calmness and can relieve anxiety. The process requires you to slow down and participate in a rhythmic movement. The pen to paper creates a peace in you.

3 Pass on happiness.

The receiver of your letter is going to be anxious to open the letter. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness and caring heart. 

4 You will feel good about yourself.

The art of giving provides a sense of pleasure in us. Just as you feel giving a gift, you will feel by sending a personal letter. 

5 This is time to self-reflect.

When you are mindful about what you are writing, you are reflecting on your life. You’re connecting to your job, relationships, hobbies, and point in your life more while you are writing. 

My Exploration With Letter Writing

This past year, I challenged myself to send more cards, write more letters, and leave notes of appreciation. I received phone calls from family and friends, notes of thanks back and appreciation of the nice gesture. I felt joy by what I was doing and it helped me reconnect.

In this time, we are far less connected than ever before. Try to write a letter to someone! 

Hey There!
I am looking for 200 people to participate in a social experiment of letter writing.

If you are interested in discovering the benefits of letter writing over the next month, please reach out to me and connect. 

It will be easy! You will be asked to write one letter each week over a month and then complete a survey.
We will be starting this experiment in July! So reach out today!