In this time of social distancing, a handwritten letter can be the perfect thing to bring people together.

When I first came to college, I wanted to make sure that I stayed in touch with my friends and family. A text will suffice and a call is convenient, but sending and receiving handwritten letters made me feel loved. There are so many other benefits to it as well. 

They show you care.

Letters are special because they show you care about that person. It does not take a much effort to send a text message, but it says a lot about someone if they are willing to take the time out of their busy schedule to sit down with a pen to write something and send it to you.

They make for great keepsakes.

Whenever I feel like taking a trip down memory lane or need a reminder that I have great people in my life that care about me, I like to look through some of the letters that I have gotten and reread them. I have found that just reading old conversations I have had with people can be comforting. 

Writing is relaxing.

One thing I have discovered since I started writing people letters is that it’s a great way to relieve stress. Being able to take some time off and put onto paper what I have been thinking is relaxing and therapeutic for me. Even if you never end up sending the letter to anyone, it could just be nice to write down your thoughts and seal them in an envelope. 

Letters have a personal touch.

Letters are a very personal method of communication. With all the thought and effort that goes into mailing a letter, you have to care about who you’re sending it to and what you’re saying. It does not always have to be about something super deep, but I like the heartwarming feeling that comes from having healthy, personal connections with people. I think writing letters is a great way to build these connections. 

Whether I am writing to my best friend from high school who goes to a different college or to my grandmother back home, giving and receiving handwritten letters has brought me happiness, and I think it can for you too.

Be well, Auburn. 

Photography: Morgan G.