Last year, near the end of August, I realized there were about 20 weeks left in the year. It was the perfect opportunity to make a fun activity out of sending one letter a week through December to spread a little joy. I know, I know… letter writing has really fallen to the wayside. It’s possible there have been times recently when holding a pen or pencil felt so awkward! (What is this invention?) Suddenly I felt empathy for my children learning to write ;) But one evening, as I washed dishes and cleaned up the kitchen, I thought letter writing would be such an easy way to spread some joy to the lives of others. And admittedly, to my life. So, I began to write 20 letters.
What happened next was such delight. As I wrapped up the project, I realized how much I had been looking forward to writing regular letters each week. It is causing me to look through the lens of my mothering, homemaking, and friendship differently. The repetitive rhythmic tasks we spend our lives doing — yes our entire lives, are not for waste (nor are they to be wasted). These are beautiful, worthy tasks.
Additionally, letter writing is causing me to think about my relationship with the Lord. Is the Fruit of the Spirit evident in my life, and for long-term? How do I feel about my life and the way I’m living it?
If you enjoy writing, cultivating relationships, reflecting on your growth (or seeing where growth is needed), perhaps you could join me in writing more letters?
Last year, as I mailed my final “20 letters”, I asked some of my friends on Instagram (@MaggieWhitley) if anyone wanted to be my penpal in 2021. I received a few requests so I’ve been busy this month penning more letters.
Below is a sample if you need a little nudge to get started.
Hello, Sara!
How has the month of January treated you so far? I hope well. How was 2020 for you and your family? I know everyone has had such different experiences. What is something you learned last year? For me: vitamins, lots of writing, and intentional discussions have been needed.
What are you making for dinner? (Here: frittata with cheddar, blue cheese, spinach, onion, zesty sausage.) What are your hobbies? (Mine: reading, houseplants, writing, outside walks.) What time do you wake up each day?
As I write to you the dishwasher is swooshing water & soap, and my four children are playing in pairs. It is blissful here. I’m not sure how you feel about Jesus, or what your relationship with Him is like, but He’s very important to me as He’s softened my heart in so many ways. I hope we can talk about Him a little bit as we write back & forth.
love, Maggie
What are your thoughts? Do you remember how to hold a pen? (lol) Address an envelope? Who did you last receive a handwritten letter from? Wishing you a very happy Tuesday!
xx, Maggie
Hello Miss Maggie . I loved your idea of a letter per week so much that I asked for (and received) stationary for Christmas. Now to write that first letter . Hugs
Go, mama go! :)
Dear Maggie, I always wrote letters..Pages long with my friends. And then there was a project when I was Young where you Could find a penpal world wide and I am still in Touch with two. One in Finland and in Hong Kong. And even today, I write with a friend and two older ladies since we moved. Encouraging my Kids to write thank you notes.
Now, I am looking Forward to Mail from the U.S.. Lots of Love.♥️
This is certainly a meaningful milestone for you! So very special. I look forward to you receiving my letter and of course your reply :):)
Of course!! ;)
I love this. I know how much it means to you to get a note in writing. So seeing you do the same for others feels like an extra special thing.
It’s practices like these that shape us over time. Tiny bit by tiny bit.
“Bird by bird” :)