While digital correspondence, such as electronic mails or texts, are convenient and fast, there is something special about receiving a handwritten note or drawings from friends and family that brings me feeling joy and nostalgia.

Unlike email, writing letters are physical evidence that someone cares about you.  It allows communication with more than just preset fonts on computer screen.  From handwritten letter to handmade cards, or photographs and children’s drawing, these mailed memorabilia are something that are worth keeping and treasured for years to come.

The personal touch of letter can bring people closer together than an electronic mail or e-card can.  Letter writing requires extra thoughts, time, and effort and hence makes it more meaningful for both the sender and receiver.  It can strengthen family ties, especially for extended families and friends in home country, who might not be computer savvy or do not have access to internet.

Moreover, there is something special about sending and receiving mail for children. It gives children a sense of importance to be receiving mail addressed to them.  It also teaches children the importance of being patience and what it means to take extra effort to make the connection.

To introduce children to the art of writing and mailing letters, I made a cardboard mailbox, with opening at back for children to open and take out mails.  I also provided children with stickers for stamps, envelopes, papers, and markers.  Encourage other family members or friends to write to start writing to children and corresponding with each other as another form of communication.

During this challenging times, where social distance is required, what better way to send our love than sending message of love and kindness through writing and sending letters.