Handwritten Letters

Call me old-fashioned, but I love hand-written letters! There is something special about sitting down and writing or reading a note meant for you. In our ever-growing tech savvy world, I think letter writing still holds an important component in our family communication. Emails, messengers, text messages have become a way of life but I still prefer written letters.

Taking the time to send a thoughtful note shows you cherish a relationship and want to invest in it. My most favorite part is pausing long enough to say things that matter.

To some young people, mail can seem outdated or boring; but for mature generations, it’s a tradition rich in sentiment.Our ancestors recognized the importance of writing letters, and so should we.

With a simple notepad and few strokes of the pen, you have the power to encourage a loved one, inspire a friend or rekindle a romance. 

Try doing it too! Research says it can actually make you happier. Steve Toepfer from Kent State University studies “author benefits” – the perks you get from penning letters. Toepher says by making a habit of writing thoughtful letters of gratitude, “you’ll feel happier, you’ll feel more satisfied, and if you’re suffering from depressive symptoms, your symptoms will decrease.” 

Telling your loved ones and friends how much you appreciate them helps you count your blessings and notice some of the beauty in your life.

Do it today. Who do you appreciate most in life?If you could only speak to them one more time, what would you tell them?Write that down. 

Some of the dozens of letters we have in our Family History Gallery.