A Reflection Down to the Letter

I never thought as I was entering another writing class that I would be indulging in snail mail again. Every month finding time to sit down and compose a written letter and getting stamps to paste on the newly bought envelopes was a daunting task. The idea of doing something that was the only option for long-distance communication for my parents and grandparents intrigued me.

Every time I sit down and compose a letter, I experience a feeling of second-hand nostalgia. Having the opportunity to use technology, and other things, to keep in touch leaves me very grateful but lacking other sources to communicate. Today, writing tangible letters is hardly someone’s first thought, but instead, a quick email or text comes to mind. As Susan Shain said, “In an age of torrential email, incessant groups texts and lackadaisical Facebook birthday posts, snail has become quaint, almost vintage” (par. 5). This statement, I have come to realize, is quite sad but enlightening. For it is true, people have begun to lose the real bond that a handwritten note can bring.

The first response I got from my snail mail was extremely positive. One does not know the possible joy that can come from a personal message, such as a handwritten letter. Multiple respondents mentioned how tears were a reaction to my letter. One response from my grandmother said “I cried when I read the letter. It meant so much to me, and I will keep it forever as long as I am alive. It was so heart touching” (English). This just shows me how much the recipients need the letters they receive.

How has writing tangible letters benefitted me? I would answer this question in many ways. I have learned the importance of connecting with the audience through my pieces of writing. I have been shown why a simple thing such as a handwritten letter is an effective way of communicating. I have developed critical thinking skills from being contemplative about the purpose of bonding communication and the thought which is put behind that. I have reflected back on to the actual reason for my writing. Handwritten letters inspire creativity and show the importance of every word used within the letter. I am extremely grateful for the monthly writing assignments which enlighten me about tasks that take more time but are more beneficial in the end.

Signifying the art of letter-writing is critical when trying to highlight the importance of it.  Letter writing is considered an art because of the practice that it takes to master it (Norton, par. 8). The letters that I wrote and received a response to I consider an art because the respondent and I will treasure them forever. Also, writing these letters brought relaxation and a break from the screens of technology.

Now, as I reap the benefits from this monthly assignment, I must continue to write snail mail or reach out for a pen-pal. As I see the effects on the recipients of my snail mail, stopping such a bonding ritual would only set me back. I have and will be able to continue to develop my creativity and analytical-thinking skills.  All of the positive developments that have come from writing letters far outweigh the hassle of buying stamps, envelopes, and finding time to compose the letter. If I stop these letters, I will be a contributor to the problem of letting “vintage” things die.