Is Snail Mail Dead?
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Time to read 3 min
We live in an increasingly digital world, where we meet virtually and text and message instantly. But sometimes you can't tell someone's tone in an instant communication, and I can tell you that Zoom Fatigue is a real thing! Everything we say is expressed as efficiently as possible.
Don't get me wrong, I'm no luddite. I use these technologies daily. But I also think that social media can be isolating, and that more than ever, people are looking for real and authentic connection. There's a growing movement to embrace analog modes of communication, and snail mail is where it's at! Because it requires just a little more effort, snail mail feels personal and special.
Why You Should Send Snail Mail
6 Reasons to Pick Up a Pen and Write a Letter
1. It feels special
So much of the mail I get is junk. Ads, catalogs, bills, lots of boring stuff. But when I get a card or paper invitation in the mail, it feels really special. My son absolutely loves getting a letter in the mail that's addressed just to him. It's not just kids who love snail mail, adults do too.
Sending snail mail is a way to tell someone else that you're thinking of them and that they're worth the extra effort of pen and paper and stamp. Because so much of our communication is about efficiency, there's something nostalgic about receiving snail mail. It always makes me feel really cared for!
2. Cards are Keepsakes
I won't lie and say that I've kept every card I've ever received. However, I've kept a lot of snail mail over the years! After my wedding, I carefully punched a hole in the corner of every greeting card and tied them all together into a little keepsake album.
It's so fun to look through the cards and remember that special day, and how my friends and family were all there to celebrate. People like to keep sentimental things. Maybe you have a grandparent who showed you some of their most cherished correspondence? Snail mail can fall into this category of treasured memories that are worth keeping.
Greeting Cards to Show You Care
3. Relationship Building
Writing a letter is also special for the person sending it. When I write a card, I really think about the person who will receive it. I try to write a thoughtful message, and the end result is that I feel closer and more connected to the person who will eventually open the envelope.
4. Writing by Hand
Not only does pen and ink feel nostalgic, but it can also be really powerful. I know that I am much more likely to remember something if I've written it down (that's how I studied for all of my university exams!). I also make a to do list every day, and the act of writing down my tasks and then eventually crossing the items off the list is extremely satisfying. We seem to have moved towards a 100% digital world, but that just doesn't work for me. Using my hands and writing, whether for personal notes or for snail mail, is a much more powerful experience.
“Sir, more than kisses, letters mingle souls; for, thus friends absent speak.”
5. A Chance for Creativity
Did you know that there aren't THAT many rules for decorating envelopes? The address has to be clear and legible, and generally formatted in a recognizable way. But you can absolutely play and go to town decorating your snail mail. This is one of my absolute favorite things to do, and being on the receiving end of creative snail mail is just so delightful!
6. Stress Relief
Are you a journaler? If so, you know how good it can feel to get your thoughts out of your head and onto paper. And the fact that your snail mail will end up in the hands of somebody who cares about you and will actually read your words is such a great feeling. The act of writing feels meditative to me (and also envelope decorating). But just knowing that my thoughts are going somewhere is always a relief.
Just Because Greeting Cards
"To write is human, to receive a letter: Divine!"
Snail Mail Isn't Dead!
Sending snail mail is such a joy. Because it takes a little more effort, it feels personal and thoughtful. In a world where we often prioritize efficiency, there's something wonderfully nostalgic about sending a card or a letter. Give it a try and send someone you love some snail mail! I bet you'll both love it.
Looking to get started, but feeling overwhelmed by a blank sheet of paper? A greeting card is an excellent place to start for your snail mail journey.
