Dream Job: Letter Writing

A long while back, someone asked me, “If you could do anything for a job, what would you do?”

After carefully thought (because this is a serious question), I realized that I’d write letters. Handwritten notes are becoming a lost art. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been contacted by someone who couldn’t believe that I had mailed them a note.

No one does that.

I know. And it’s such a shame. I love the Internet, I do. But nothing can replace the tangibility of paper and ink. When I hold a handwritten letter in my hands, I know that the sender also held it. And in some small way, I feel closer to them because of that. It’s like I’ve just been offered a hug.

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Of course, you may argue that it’s expensive to mail paper when you can write your thoughts in a quick email and press send. A letter is a gift, and with that thought, it’s rather a cheap gift in comparison with some things that can be given.

One thing I love about a letter is that it allows the writer to express themselves without the interruption or distraction of their audience, and the combination of the paper and ink creates a safe place for introspection. I wonder how many letters have been written but not sent because the letter writer discovered something about themselves that they didn’t want to share quite yet.

Letters are a special form of sharing of your self.

But if you’re still not sure where to start with your own letter, let me show you some fun images to inspire.

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So now you know the different types of letters you can send, but you’re still a bit uncertain about the general format? Let’s revisit elementary school for a quick reminder.

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Are you still not sure about letter writing? I know, I know. Hand cramps. Yes, they do happen when you write a letter. I’ve experienced the discomfort. But if you want to make someone feel truly special, this is the way to go!

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And don’t forget the back of the envelope! I usually like to let doodles rule supreme on the back of the envelope–they’re like the pre-show before the actual feature presentation! Someday I’d love to seal my letters with wax.

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I’m such a fan of letters that I’d be willing to write you a letter! Yes, you. Send me a tweet or a facebook message, and I’ll write you!

What About You?

Do you love to receive letters? Do you enjoy writing letters too?