Another way to say hello

3 Good Reasons to write a letter 
(along with a piece of stationery to get you started)

You may be a letter writer, or you may groan at the thought of it. But consider this: getting and sending mail feels good.

It does.

I've been writing letters for years, and yes, there are days when I sit down to write and can't think of anything to say. Or I fuss over my supplies and stare at the ceiling waiting for inspiration.

But, I always find something to write about and always enjoy the rush of anticipation when I drop an envelope into the outgoing mail slot.

If you're asking yourself, why bother when you can call or text, here are three good reasons to write ... and a note about getting letters in return.

1. Getting (and sending) mail feels good.
Maybe it's seeing your name on the envelope, or the element of surprise. Maybe it's knowing someone is thinking about you. Maybe it's all of those things, but there's no doubt, getting mail feels good.

And, writing and sending mail is a good way to feel closer to the person you're writing to. The simple act of writing a person's name can bring a flood of thoughts and ideas about who they are ... and bring them a bit closer.

Push aside your fears and doubt and make it a good mail day for someone you know.

2. It's another way to say hello.
That's why I started writing. Years ago, I was too shy and awkward to make a phone call, so writing was another way I could say hello.

And the people I wrote to? They loved it.

Write about the dinner you cooked last night, how your garden is growing. Write about the sunset, the sunrise, or how the afternoon light casts a shadow on the wall. The morning songbirds or that crow that woke you up.

You don't have to be clever or funny (unless of course you are), just be you. Write as if you are sitting across the table from one another, talking.

3.  It can help you say things that matter. 
Are you especially proud of someone ... like a recent high school graduate who's left for college? Write and tell them how proud you are, wish them luck, and write again another day. It could be the connection they long for as they as they set out on their own.

Has someone made a difference in your life, made you a better person? Let them know. 

I've written to doctors and nurses who have been especially kind and understanding. And a car mechanic who fixed a minor problem, at no charge. 

It's hard sometimes to find the right words when we're face to face. And people are quick to cut you off, to say, "Oh, no worries, my pleasure."

Writing gives you time to consider what you want to say without interruption.

Not sure where to start? Try saying out loud what you want to say, and write it down. It will help you write in a more conversational tone, and make your writing less formal and stiff.

Write and give someone you know something to hold on to.

Note: Don't expect a letter in return. That should be the first rule of letter writing. It's a tough one because getting mail is terrific.

Of course no one should expect a reply to a thank you note, but after writing a casual letter, it's easy to imagine getting one in return. Someone may surprise you, but don't count on it. 

And don't let it stop you from writing.

Writing letters is simply another way to say hello ... and there are rewards. Writing can give you a sense of accomplishment, bring you closer to the people you write to, improve your writing skills, and start a conversation.

And, don't worry about your handwriting ... it's what makes your letters so special.

Here's some writing paper to get you started. Slip it into an envelope and put a stamp on it.