I have hand written, in cursive, a few letters over the past couple of months. As I wrote, I had memories of days as a youth reading letters from grandmothers. They were so enjoyable to read, filled with simple news and lots of misspelled words. I could hold them, reread them again and again.
Wives, mothers and lovers depended on letters to keep connected to those serving during wartime, making sure anyone on foreign soil knew they were loved. Some still have those cherished letters.
There’s a common belief that peace is the absence of struggle. But peace demands its own sacrifices. Are we who work for it willing to engage with as much fervor as those who fight wars do?
Anyway, this Memorial day I have reflected on the importance of those letters, those who served and those who kept in touch.
4 Comments
Steve Skinner
I can hardly remember the last time I received a written letter; it most likely was from my mother and she has been gone for several years.
Monte Stevens
I’m finding them enjoyable and therapeutic. My mother responded immediately but let me know not to expect many in return. Thanks, Steve. I hope you had an enjoyable weekend.
Paul
I remember how excited that I used to be when I would receive a letter from my various pen-pals around the world. I would check the mailbox each and every day. There was just something special about it. As soon as I read the letter, I’d respond. Also, like you, I’d read, re-read, and re-read them often. There are times when I wish that I would have kept those letters. Who knows where they got lost, or when.
Now, with the instantness of most everything, getting an actual letter, though very special, would seem … odd. 🙂 I’d still enjoy it, though.
Monte Stevens
Thanks for sharing your memories, Paul. I don’t remember having any pen pals and letter writing as a youth was not my thing. I wanted to be exploring and playing sports rather than any writing or reading. I’m more the opposite at this age.
My mother enjoyed my first letter to her, wrote right back. We’ll see how often she responds. I may write more letters rather than emails and primarily for myself. I was given a fountain pen as a gift, the one pictured, and have enjoyed using a fine writing instrument.
Yes, I would also like to have the letters my grandmothers wrote. Even to just hold them.