“You can’t reread 
a phone call.” 
Liz Carpenter

At lunch on Sunday afternoon, I overheard a comment that caught my attention. I don’t know the context in which it was made, but my sister, Peggy, said, “No one writes letters anymore.”

My first instinct was to disagree. Fortunately, I’ve learned that it’s sometimes wise to pause before speaking. Upon reflection, I realized she was right. When was the last time I received a handwritten letter? More importantly, when was the last time I wrote one? Yeah, it’s been a while.

Perhaps I initially bristled at Peggy’s observation because, when speaking about gratitude, I often encourage people to consider the value of a handwritten thank-you note. Sure, sending a quick text is convenient, but there’s something special about receiving a note someone took the time to write by hand. It communicates more than appreciation. It lets the other person know we care.

I’m an enthusiastic writer of thank-you notes, birthday cards, get-well wishes, and condolence cards. But letters? That’s another story.

For me, writing a letter is much like composing a five-paragraph essay. There’s an introduction, a few paragraphs sharing news about family, travel, and life’s adventures, and a closing paragraph expressing good wishes and hopes of getting together again. That’s a considerable undertaking!

These days, we type, text, email, and occasionally talk on the telephone. Other than grocery lists and greeting cards, how often do we actually put pen to paper?

I still write letters, but rarely by hand. My freshman typing class in high school may have been the most useful course I ever took. Typing comes naturally to me. Handwriting, however, has become tedious and occasionally uncomfortable.

Then there’s the convenience of editing. On my computer, I can rearrange sentences, correct spelling, and delete entire paragraphs without leaving a trace. A handwritten letter offers no such luxury.

So, reluctantly, I must concede Peggy’s point. Handwritten letters have become something of a lost art. But perhaps that’s precisely why they’re worth preserving. In a world where communication is increasingly instantaneous and disposable, a handwritten letter offers something different. It requires time, patience, and intentionality. It tells the recipient, “You matter enough for me to slow down.”

And isn’t that, in itself, an expression of gratitude?

I may never return to writing all my letters by hand, but perhaps it’s time to make an occasional exception. After all, some things are worth the extra effort.

Thanks for the reminder, Peggy.