What if Slow Messaging is the Most Meaningful?

What can you do when the people you love the most in the world live several thousand miles away?

You can write to them. Not text them on your phone — you can write a proper letter, on paper.

I know, it sounds like a lot of work.

I know, your handwriting’s barely legible.

I know, it doesn’t sound anywhere near as satisfying as seeing them in person.

But stay with me.

When you write someone even a short note, they get to hold it in their hands and look back at it years later.

They know you took time to buy a stamp just so that they’d feel cherished.

They take a moment out of their own day to remember that even though they’re far away, you’ll be there for them when it counts.

In a world of endless virtual messages, an envelope is a little bag filled with magic.

It can contain multitudes: photographs, keepsakes, memories, tiny gifts, tea bags, bookmarks, worry dolls, drawings, chocolates, fun greeting cards, handmade jewellery, those little toys that grow in water and much more.

One of my friends has consistently sent me incredibly beautiful handwritten and elaborately decorated cards over the years. I value these highly because of the time she has gifted me in the process of their creation. When I open one an envelope that’s come from her, there’s an almost tangible feeling of thoughtfulness that floats out with the note.

I remember feeling a similar sense of love when I opened some of the wedding cards our friends sent — the collection included inside jokes, funny drawings and beautiful wishes for the future. I remember, after having read much of the wedding mail under the bright yellow light of my bedside lamp, that a kind, generous message from a friend finally made tears unexpectedly well up in my eyes and come pouring out.

When you read someone’s handwriting and run your fingers over the light blue envelope they chose to celebrate you, you perceive the way they care for you in a manner that text messages simply don’t allow.

Think of this the next time you want to tell someone they matter. Put your phone down and pick up a pen instead.

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This post was previously published on medium.com.

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