April is designated as National Card and Letter Writing Month. Who knew? Since most of our communication is now done electronically, handwritten anything seems almost ancient.
But if you will turn your focus to a time you were on the receiving end, is there a special note or letter that was written by hand that you cherish? For someone to hand write a note and mail it to us takes effort and reminds us that someone thinks we are worth that effort.
What if we could take a few extra minutes during special days and write our thoughts and well wishes to someone. What if our note was one of those chosen to be read and kept in a special place for years. Perhaps pulled out at various times and brought a smile and cheer to the heart. Surely that is some inspiration to be a blessing to someone. It's not as difficult as it sounds...
Picking an occasion, a birthday or anniversary is a great place to start. Facebook makes this easy!! Look on upcoming birthdays or begin to listen out for friends and family special days. Also be alert for various times a cheer up would be appropriate or to celebrate something special.
Find a card - they are everywhere! Even Dollar Tree has cute cards. Spend a few moments reading and finding a good message, or get a blank one. Then, write a few special notes from your heart. Here are a few tips:
1. Bring out the gold.
Call out your favorite things about the person you're writing a card to. Many of us find it much easier to see the things we don't like about ourselves than the beautiful things God put on the inside of us. One of the most uplifting things you can do for someone is to call out those things they may not see in themselves, recognize the gifts God has placed in their lives, or mention something that makes them special. Help them see the great things you see in them that they may not have known you see in them and bring out the gold inside of them!
2. Take a little stroll down memory lane.
Recalling a special memory or shared moment is a great way to reconnect. It's easy for us to forget fun and great times from previous years with the business of today, but taking a little time to reminisce and remember those moments can bring joy to your recipient. Bring back those touching moments and relive them together!
3. Look back to the future.
Depending on how often you're able to keep in touch with this person, you may have some future plans together or simply an exciting season coming up. Write down something you look forward to doing together in the next year or something you're excited to see God do in her life. Show that you look forward to your continued relationship and the new things it will bring.
4. Make a joyful declaration!
Nothing says you care about someone more than praying for and talking to God about them. Speak blessings into their life or offer up a prayer for the year to come! It's great to hear you're being prayed for, but reading the actual prayer makes it extra special and memorable. The most powerful way to encourage people is through God's Word. Try asking God for a Scripture your recipient will be encouraged by and write it down.
The best thing about receiving a card is knowing you were in someone's mind and they cared enough to send a personal message that took a little more time than sending an email or text message. You don't have to be eloquent or lengthy, but you will encourage someone with God's love through your heartfelt sentiment.
Comments
Post a Comment
Thank you for sharing your commment. It is a joy and blessing to hear from you and your words are appreciated.