In grammar school, I was taught how to write a letter. From what to put in the top lefthand corner of the page to how to properly address an envelope. At the time, this all seemed pretty exciting and "adult-like" to be able to do. Over the years, though, email and eventually texting replaced the pen and paper. Still to this day, I tend to send letters while I'm abroad. Whether in the form of a postcard, store-bought card, or even just a piece of notebook paper, handwritten mail tends to create more emotion than any other form.

Most recently, and the inspiration for this piece, I received a handwritten letter from my boyfriend that had printed on the front, "Do not open until you are in Paris." Just looking at the note, I couldn't help but think about what could possibly be written on the paper. It was folded so perfectly that I knew time had been spent on it. Thus is the beauty of handwritten letters. I have packed the letter into my suitcase already such that it is the first thing I see when I begin to unpack my things for a three month stay in Paris. It is truly amazing how receiving a sealed envelope with your name on it can put the biggest smile on your face.

Yet another reason as to why the letter has become a sentiment of meaning in many ways is the excitement of having a pen pal. During the time my grandmother was alive, she wrote to a young girl in Africa as part of a program through our church. I can remember being the same age as the girl and noting how beautiful she looked in the photo she sent my grandmother. You could see in her face that my grandmother made her feel special and that she was excited to receive letters from her American friend. All together, I will never forget the letters and pictures my grandmother received from her pen pal and the happiness each new piece of mail brought both of them.

All in all, I will always stand by the idea of a handwritten letter. I will always write them and when I receive them, see not only the words, but the time and effort placed in the writing. There are very few feelings that can compare with not only writing a letter, but receiving it as well.