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About This Author
I am SoCalScribe. This is my InkSpot.
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Blogocentric Formulations #828053 added September 14, 2014 at 2:46am
Restrictions: None
Letters as Lifelines
Written as part of "a very Wodehouse challenge"  (WdC 14th Birthday Round, September 2014). PROMPT: Write a short story in which a handwritten letter features prominently OR a blog entry/true story about a handwritten letter you sent or received.
As it happens, my mission trip to Brazil this summer included a very powerful reminder about the significance of handwritten letters. As part of the trip, my wife and I arranged for friends and family to send us handwritten notes - one for every day - so that we could each have a daily affirmation that would keep our spirits high. (Neither of us can take credit for the idea; it was actually my wife's mentor's idea for her trip to Brazil last year.)
I ended up getting handwritten notes from a lot of people, including my immediate family and close friends, but also some who I hadn't heard from in quite some time. It was a genuine surprise to see their letters, and incredibly touching that each of them took the time to handwrite some sentiments and send them to me. Other than the occasional greeting card or thank you note, I can't remember the last time I actually wrote a letter to someone by hand, and hadn't received one either. I had honestly forgotten how nice it was to receive a handwritten letter, and how special it makes someone feel to receive a personal letter like that.
The trip to Brazil was tough, and it was great to have these notes to keep my spirits up and encourage me throughout the weeks I was away from home. It really made me realize that I'd like to start doing that for other people; not just writing letters when people go on mission trips, but taking the time to write them personal letters and send them snail mail. If for no other reason than knowing it will probably bring a smile to their face a few days after I send it off. Besides, who knows? Maybe I'll even get one or two in return, which will bring a smile to my face!
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