My thoughts exactly

 I get a newsletter from Victorian Trading Co every few weeks and I thought this 

was absolutely perfect and so I share!

Dear Sara,

I fear that letter-writing may succumb to electronic correspondences. Admittedly, there lies the advantage of efficiency and immediacy that accompanies a spontaneous train of thought... issued with a mere press of the "send" key. The postman's pace simply cannot rival the lightning-speed of internet. 

It was with concern that I reviewed a number of my new friends the other day and realized that I had never witnessed their handwriting. Aside from signing our names there is little need to write. Hand addressed envelopes are seldom found in the mail slot these days. Christmas cards are in danger of obsolescence, seceding to digital family photos that are ready in an hour. Though writer's cramp is not sorely missed, I do believe that penned sentiments invoke more genuine thought and instill an emotional appeal. A love letter printed in the most frivolous font cannot compete with the imperfections of a scribed hand belonging to the only person who can own that handwriting.

When emails were first popular, many would frown upon thank you notes and invitations being sent to a computer screen. It was considered gauche to extend a sympathy or proclaim an announcement that was generated from a keyboard. But the green movement granted permission in light of trees and fuel saved. Address books and phone books are seceding to smartphone contacts and whitepages.com. The postage continues to increase and our time spent on menial tasks becomes more precious. But this transition has given birth to artisan papers and handmade cards that celebrate the deity of the mailed correspondence. The rarity of postmarked letters now deems them as cherished possessions. 

I loved cartridge pens with peacock blue ink, and reveled in the variety of stamp selections at the post office counter. Vibrant stickers, sealing wax, fanciful address labels and rubber stamp imagery enhanced the ritual. Much of the joy was anticipating the recipient's delight. Often we would tuck a handful of rose petals or confetti within the folded paper. Photographs were a sublime bonus whereas now we glance at Facebook albums. Mail delivery was once greatly anticipated.

We should savor our loved-one's handwritten letter. It cannot be deleted, cut and pasted or forwarded. It is yours alone and a precious gift of their time and thought.

Now go write someone a letter!