write more letters by hand

My sister is a friend/mentor to a girl whom she’s watched grow up since age 5. The girl is now 14 and her family has fallen apart. I’ve been a long-distance mentor for this girl too—I sent her books when she had trouble reading in grade school. I’ve written and visited and sent presents. She’s bright, but she’s at risk. She’s basically homeless because her parents are divorcing. Her mother is living with some bum and her father has disowned her. So I wrote to her. There’s not much I can do from 3000 miles away, but I told her I love her and believe in her strength. I empathized with her. I reminded her of her dreams, and to hold onto them. I also enclosed a little money so she could get something she needs (like food) or treat herself. I hope, hope, hope the letter provides a little emotional sustenance.

I went to the library today and wrote two short letters. It really didn’t take long, and it felt good to put my hand to a different sort of use. I’m sure the recipients will be very pleased when they retrieve their snail mail in a few days. It’s nice to be away from the computer sometimes.