The Art of Correspondence
We are getting better and better at connecting solely on the surface of things. How is technology helping me to connect with my dear friend or my grandchildren on a deep, deep level?
That’s what I want to do. I don’t want to live on the surface. I want to have a meaningful life and infuse meaning into other people’s lives. Correspondence and connecting is one of the wonderful ways that we can do this.
The word connect is a great word, because that’s the essence of correspondence. When I write a letter, I am considering the person who I am writing to, I have the picture of them in my mind’s eye, and I know what my heart wants to say. I want to build in strength, confidence, joy, celebration, and anything meaningful that I can.
It’s not convenient to write a letter, and we are very much into convenience today. We’re missing meaning because of that.
The art of correspondence is not convenient, but it is meaningful.
Yours for the return of Grace, Civility, Beauty, Gentility, and Excellence,
Mary Alice
Three Simple Ways to Begin The Art of Correspondence
1. Begin with one.
While we hold many dear to us, the thought of keeping in touch with everyone may feel daunting. Resist the urge to do it all at once. Begin simply—with one. Perhaps a friend who has been on your heart, someone deserving of a thoughtful thank you, or a familiar soul such as a family member. Every meaningful correspondence begins just so: with one.
2. Keep it delightfully simple.
A note does not need to be long to be sincere. A few heartfelt lines on a small card are often enough. This is where a cherished collection of blank cards becomes quite convenient—always ready when the moment to write presents itself.
3. Send it forth.
This final step, though seemingly obvious, is too often delayed. Do not let your note linger in a drawer, a handbag, or the glove compartment. Send it by post, leave it on someone’s doorstep, or slip it into waiting hands when opportunity allows. No matter the method, ensure your words find their way to the one for whom they were written.
