A Lost Art

A lost art. As technology has progressed, the need to handwrite letters has faded. It now seems tedious, archaic, and slow. Sending emails or, better yet, texts is much faster and convenient. But there's something about handwriting a letter that no text or email can replicate.

I learned the importance of the art of writing letters while I was at summer camp. For just over four weeks, I had no phone, no social media—just one way to connect with the outside world: handwritten letters.

At first, I was terrified. No texting? No calls? How could I possibly keep in touch with everyone outside of camp? What would I miss out on? But then I began to understand something deeper. 

Writing letters causes you to be more intentional with your words. A card only has so much space, so it is essential to include the most important details. Your messages inherently become more thoughtful and more personal. Handwriting letters doesn't just improve your writing skills—it strengthens your relationships. It shows just how much you care. I even believe it enriches the soul.

To this day, I find great joy in reading handwritten letters. Inspired by camp, one of my best friends and I decided to be pen pals once we began college. Now and then we send each other letters. Many ask, “What’s the difference between a letter and a simple text?” or wonder, “Why go through the hassle?” Well, yes, I do see how others find writing letters tedious- buying the cards, envelopes, stamps, then one must address the letter, and ultimately drive or walk to send it out. It’s a whole process.  But that process is exactly the point. Every extra step is an act of care.

My friend and I write it all: the laughs, the tears, the little things. Even though we are on opposite coasts of the country, these letters make me feel like she’s right here with me. 

It’s a nice way to still feel connected and show that we care for each other.

I have heard of the joy my letters bring to others. I keep every letter I receive, they are just so precious to me. Over winter break, I found a box tucked away in my drawer. It was full of cards from my Bat Mitzvah - over 5 years ago. The memories rushed to my head, all the joy and excitement from that ceremony.

One letter stood out: it was from my Hebrew tutor, the only teacher who never gave up on me despite my weak language skills. Reading his words once again reminded me of how much he believed in me, no matter the circumstances. If not for him, I would’ve never had the confidence to minor in Jewish Studies at UGA. All those years ago, no one but him had faith in me. That letter meant so much that I reached out to his family to say thank you. They were touched. And hearing how much joy my letter brought them brought joy to me too.

So write that letter. Make that extra effort. Brighten someone’s day while brightening your own. 

Be someone’s yellow, bring someone a smile. You might even smile yourself.