Who Should I Write?

“In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

Martin Luther King, Jr.

It’s easy to forget that words not spoken or conveyed in writing are remembered because you didn’t take the time to communicate.

More than pen scratches on paper, written words keep people you care about from thinking you don’t care.

When you failed to apologize. Or say thanks. Or offer congratulations. Or admit a mistake. Or extend sympathy.

The Power of the Pen

When you lacked the courage in the moment to say what you felt, later you can take up a pen and write a brief note.

The vulnerability it takes to build a bridge with words in order to maintain a friendship, restore trust, and to encourage growth leads to authenticity.

Written words carry so much potential for good. A letter or note can be read and reread, the words soaking deeper into hearts.

Written words are currency. Save, invest and spend wisely.

Remember Who, Why, and When

Keep a log of who you write. A 5×8 inch spiral notebook works well.

At the top of a new page, write the month and the year.

Then list the names of those you either want to write, or if birthdays and special events occur that month, record the name of that person.

Put the day of the month to the left of the person’s name and the occasion for sending a note or card. Thank you, sympathy or a celebrations, this method serves as a record and a reminder, of whether I sent a note or forgot.

When I look at a page, a check mark indicates I have actually written, stamped, addressed and put the note in the mail. Ta-dah!

Even belated birthday cards or notes arrive as welcome surprises.

“A wizard is never late, Frodo Baggins. Nor is he early. He arrives precisely when he means to.”

Gandalf, Fellowship of the Rings

A friend assured me, “A handwritten note is never late.”

This method has worked for me since March of 2011. The notebook keeps me honest, tracking whether I followed through. Some notes to send carry over to the next month.

Or not.

Even when I fail to send a note, this simple ledger of sorts has become a kind of journal for note-writing that reminds me who, when, where and shows me how many years I’ve kept up with people I care about.

“Let other pens dwell on guilt and misery”

Jane Austen, Mansfield Park