Article: Writing the Cards and Letters that Matter Most

Writing the Cards and Letters That Matter Most

By Karen Jordan

National Card and Letter Writing Month is an opportunity for all Americans to rediscover the timeless and very personal art of letter writing. Both in times of peace and conflict, cards and letters are the most effective way to share and permanently record our thoughts, prayers, hopes and dreams. (Postmaster General John E. Potter).

What cards and letters have you held on to over the years? As I looked through my memory box of correspondence, I discovered several categories.
Old Christmas cards
Valentine cards from my husband and children
Letters to my mother, when I first moved away from my hometown
Birthday cards from my husband and children
Thank-you notes
Letters from my husband, when we were apart
"Thinking of you" cards from friends after I moved away
Mother's Day cards from my kids and grandkids
Even though I send few cards and letters now, I still enjoy receiving them. But I’m reconsidering this lost art of letter writing. I know others appreciate receiving them as much as I do. And a few friends and relatives don't communicate online.

I think the following messages would warrant an old-fashioned card or letter.
Thank-you note. I've fallen short with "thank-you" etiquette, but I know most people appreciate a written note of thanks, and many expect it.
Thinking-of-you note. Often it's hard for me to tell people how I feel face-to-face; so, I seem to express myself better by writing them.
Congratulations. I’m always thrilled when I receive blessings from old friends and family.
Love letters. These private notes can become treasured keepsakes for loved ones or even part of our recorded legacy.
Tribute. Words of praise might be difficult to write. But if you sense an expression of gratitude or praise is appropriate, you can be sure that you will find the words you need to express your thoughts.
Reconciliation. Have you written that letter to end a conflict, resolve some differences, or restore a friendship? “The moment you realize God’s purpose, which is to get you rightly related to Himself and then to your fellow men, He will tax the last limit of the universe to help you take the right road. Decide it now—‘Yes, Lord, I will write that letter to-night’; ‘I will be reconciled to that man now’" (Oswald Chambers).
What card or letter will you write today?

Karen Jordan is best known for telling the stories that matter most. She has multiple writing credits and trains other writers as well. Contact her for speaking events, writing assignments, and interviews at kj@karenjordan.net or visit www.karenjordan.net.

Karen has donated this article to be used by CLASSEMINARS to help get the word out about the next CLASS Christian Writers Conference this fall. Karen has attended every year except one, since 2004, and because of her interaction at the conference, she is reaping an expanded network in the writing industry as well as seeing amazing doors opening up for her this year. If you're interested in attending the conference, or would like to hear about their early bird special (expires the end of April), click here for more information: http://bit.ly/H4hMYu/.