June 29, 2025: Physical Letters

“Hello Mrs. Lindquist,

         I am emailing because I do not know how to send a physical letter.”

So started an email I recently received from a former student. It is always such a delightful treat to hear from former students, and I eagerly read her email.  However, this opening statement has stayed with me.

I think that she meant that she did not have my home address, so therefore could not mail me a letter, but I am not positive.  It is also conceivable that she has so little experience writing and mailing “snail mail”, that she is unsure of the procedure and process.

While I adore email and texting, and certainly take advantage of both on a daily basis, I am also one of those older relics who will not let go of physical correspondence. I love pretty stationery and cute cards. I enjoy the process of hand-writing, and mailing out greetings to friends, family, and loved ones. I still send out physical Birthday and Holiday Cards- no email birthday wishes from me.  And sometimes just drop a note or letter in the mail to a friend to let them know they are on my mind and in my heart.

Yes, digital greetings are quicker and cheaper.  But what is lost when we no longer send physical letters? I always mail out handwritten thank you notes- especially to my students and their families. It brings me joy to have them come in to the classroom with an ear-to-ear grin and say that they got my letter. And loved it! 

The joy of finding an unexpected connection arrive at your door. Being able to set a card on your desk or shelf to enjoy and give reminders of how much someone cares for you.  Noticing the beauty of the paper or pen color used. Physically holding it in our hands.

No matter how old we are, there is still joy at finding an unexpected card or note in our mailbox.  Send one out today to someone you have been thinking about.