The Value of a Letter
Are you aware that PostNord, Denmark’s national postal service, has officially ceased all traditional letter deliveries? On December 30, 2025, the last snail mail letter was delivered. The postal service will only deal in parcels now.
To me, this is sad and far-reaching news. It speaks volumes about what our current culture cares about. I ask myself, what kind of impact do I hope my life will have? Am I investing in the people around me? Am I intent on building what good I can, with whatever small means I have available, into my friends, family, neighbors? What are my priorities when it comes to this?
An email is limited, the lowest common denominator. It is quick, easy, cheap. Is this what I want my life to express? Our lives do speak; they speak volumes about who we are and what we most value.
I think of a widow who has recently lost her husband receiving only sympathy emails… heartbreaking. And I am thinking of a friend of hers who sits down at her desk, chooses a favorite pen, a beautiful, appropriate paper, and scribes the message of her heart. In a year or two, or five, which will have the most impact? Which will be remembered and treasured?
I am thinking of a grandparent, longing to encourage and strengthen a grandchild far away. I am thinking of a neighbor who brought brownies to your door on your first day in your new house and the possibilities for relationship there. I am thinking of the great joy a letter from a loved one who is far, far away inspires in a lonely heart.
“Like satin streamers unfurled back and forth across the miles… each handwritten note entwines the lives of sender and receiver.”
~The Art of Correspondence, from the editors of Victoria
Whether sending a newsy letter or a short note of appreciation, the good news is that the scarcity of physical letters has increased their value greatly. People know that you have spent time and you have spent money when you handwrite a note or letter. The thoughts you express mean more. A physical letter is a conscious, deliberate choice by the sender; it says, “I care about you; you matter to me, really matter.”
Who knows? Maybe soon we will see a counterbalance to our digital oversaturation. Our words can be beautiful, helpful, and build more joy and love into our world, one small missive at a time.
Yours for the return of Grace, Civility, Beauty, Gentility, and Excellence,
Mary Alice
