How to Keep in Touch with your Far Away Loved Ones
In a time of instant communication through the Internet, sometimes it is important to think about all of those people who don't have the luxury of the Web, or those who are not accustomed to it. Writing a letter to a friend or family member overseas is a great way to keep in touch.
Believe it or not, there existed a time when communication between loved ones could often take days or even weeks. The postal service manages to still ensure that letters, no matter how seemingly inconsequential, always get through. Instead of sending an email to someone you miss, write them a letter. Take an actual pen and an actual piece of paper and write down whatever you like. Make it personal, or make it plain, but the person receiving the letter will appreciate it so much more because of the purely unique nature of your letter.
What’s more is that many people, such as those serving abroad in the Armed Forces, don’t always have access to email or cell phones. These are the individuals who will appreciate your words the most. There is something uplifting and rewarding about the tangibility of a letter. It has its own personality and might even carry the essence of the person who sent it—especially if it is a love letter.
If letters aren’t your thing, then consider a post card. You can pick these up just about anywhere, and if you are taking a trip, sending a postcard to a friend or loved one can be a keepsake for years to come. You can even turn your own photos into postcards if you really want to personalize the experience.
Something else that will put a smile on your recipient’s face is sending them a care package. Sending anything from towels and socks to some freshly baked cookies is a great way to say “I’m thinking about you,” while providing some well-appreciated staples. I used to love getting care packages while in college, and it was always interesting to see what other students received in their own care packages.
What ways do you like to “un-electronically” keep in touch with your loved ones?
-Lisa
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Comments
Bud Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Thanks Lisa, it is a very nice thought.
I get 10’s and sometimes 100’s of e-mails everyday. Most of which I just delete. Some of them are electronic cards, others passed along jokes and yet others messages from friends.
Although I do appreciate the communications, I do get a special feeling when I get a card or letter in the mail. It is something that I can read, then put away to appreciate again and again. I may not read it for a year or who knows maybe ten. But when I do it will be special, nothing like the e-mails that I deleted long ago.
Lisa Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Thanks Bud! It's nice that people can still appreciate the good feeling you get from ink and paper.
-Lisa
J. Gomez Thursday, July 01, 2010
Lisa, thanks for these ideas. I have family in the military and we struggle with the same issues. For the family and friends we have that DO have access to e-mail, we actually created an online tool called DayShout to help keep in touch on a daily basis. It's kept us connected. For the rest, I LOVE the idea of turning photos into postcards. As a photographer, I am going to enjoy that. Thanks again!