A Message for World Letter Writing Day 2020
Dear friends,
Happy World Letter Writing Day 2020.
Since founding World Letter Writing Day in 2014, thousands of people from around the world have picked up a pen or pencil and written a letter — in many cases, for the very first time.
Over the years, I have personally received many handwritten letters from people simply wanting to say thank you for encouraging them to start writing again. Those letters mean more to me than I can say.
So many people tell me the same story.
They used to write letters when they were younger. They had pen pals. They remember the excitement of sending a letter and the anticipation of receiving one back. But as time passed, life became busier and digital communication slowly replaced handwritten correspondence.
Somewhere along the way, many of us lost that special connection that comes from writing to a pen pal.
That’s why, a few months ago, I started the World Letter Writing Day Pen Pal Facebook Group. Since then, hundreds of people have connected with one another and formed new pen pal friendships — reviving the joy of traditional letter writing.
Why Letter Writing Matters More Than Ever in 2020
There is no denying that 2020 has been an incredibly difficult year.
With Covid-19 affecting communities around the world, many of us have experienced moments of loneliness, uncertainty and anxiety. I know I certainly have.
There has never been a more important time to truly connect with our loved ones and friends.
Yes, we can send a message on social media. We can text. We can email.
But if you really want to connect — if you truly want to make someone feel valued and special — write them a letter.
There is something powerful about receiving a handwritten envelope in the mail. It shows time, effort and thought. And not only will the person receiving it feel special, you will feel great after writing it too.
Letter Writing for Children and Families
It has also been a challenging time for parents and children.
During homeschooling earlier this year, my son began writing letters to his classmates. The response from his school friends was incredibly positive.
Most of them had never received a letter before.
They were excited. They felt important. And they loved writing back.
It was a simple act — but it created genuine connection during a time when connection mattered most.
Let’s Make Someone’s Day
So this World Letter Writing Day, let’s show the people in our lives how much they truly mean to us.
Pick up a pen. Write from the heart. Send a letter.
You might be surprised by how much joy a single handwritten note can bring — not only to someone else, but to you as well.
Let’s keep the spirit of letter writing alive. ✉️
