Disclaimer: There is no question that I have the desire to write “inside” of me so I’m at an unfair advantage in writing about writing. I love to write so I understand that I’m biased on this subject and so this first paragraph is a disclaimer about the subject of writing. While I love it, there are those who loathe writing so I completely understand but….
With that said, all people should write letters or notes or cards to people they love and care about, to those who have lost a loved one, to people who are sick or in the hospital and for the many who give gifts including time and effort. Informational letter writing and thank you’s are of great importance even still!
With the onset of computers, the art of writing has been set aside. There is no question that this is true because the United States Post Office workers tell of the letter writing slow down since email and texting began thus letter writing is less prevalent.
There is one thing that cannot be replaced… That feeling of getting a handwritten letter from another person. While sending a card is nice, all cards should have some information inside. Writers must put more than their name when sending a card. The person receiving the card wants information and it takes just a short time to share some.
Here are 5 tips for writing a letter using the 5 paragraph method:
1. Begin the writing with information about yourself and your situation.
Dear Friend,
Hello. I hope this letter finds you happy and wise. I’m as well as can be expected considering I had surgery 2 weeks ago. Of late, I’m progressing well and hope to be up and about and able to leave the house soon. I feel as if I’ve been cooped up for some time. I’ll call you soon with the details.
2. Use your 2nd paragraph to talk about your friend.
I was thinking about you and wondering if you’ve taken that new job or if you decided to stay where you are? You’ve always been good at computers. I’m thinking a new job would do you some good and especially in the field that you know so well- tech stuff!
3. Use your 3rd paragraph to highlight something-
I think you know that I just bought a new car . I am so excited about it. The color is red and not only red but candy apple red so it is one hot car! This time, the choice was between a Toyota and a Nissan. I chose a Nissan and I’m so happy I did. One reason was that Nissan really had a great special going on and I took opportunity to get the deal.
4. Use your 4th paragraph to discuss others
Did I tell you that Kris got a new job? Yes! She will be head of Chicks Down South website video division. I’m so excited for her. There were 10 people up for the position and she was the final choice. I’m worried that I may not see her as much but at the same time, I’m happy for her being chosen.
5. The Closing- Close with a special touch to the person. See the sample below:
I’ve had so much to write you about lately. I’m glad that I was able to sit down and share some of my thoughts. I’m hoping to see you soon and I’ll catch up with you more then.
Thank you for sending me cards when I was down and out. I’m feeling much better now and will be glad to see your smiling face.
More later- With Love,
Your Name Here
There are many ways in which to write a letter. The important thing is to express your love and care to someone in the way of snail mail. I hope you’ll write a letter today!
Josie