I got actual mail, not a bill or political ad, twice last week! Both the sweet card from a dear friend on the West Coast and a postcard from a nearby friend lifted my spirits in a way that our texts to one another never do. Don’t get me wrong-technology is great, but even now, when we can facetime, houseparty and zoom with our loved ones, sending a handwritten something shows someone selected that card, blank or otherwise, for you. Words were considered, the address was double-checked. It’s thoughtful, traditional, nostalgic.

When I was little, because she loved to send cards, herself, my Mom took me to the old Bedford, Ohio post office all the time. Imagine a historic building, smelling of soap and paper (not unlike a library), with it’s high wood counters and walls of brass public boxes filled with secrets covered by stamps. It’s easy to see how I fell in love. As an adult, I have used my post office as much as possible. I am reluctant to pay bills online; I want an excuse to use the John Lennon stamp or the Love stamp, to make the walk to the mailbox.

But now, stuck at home, and inspired by the best of friends, I’ve started to write one note or card to mail to a loved one each day. Bonus, I’ve just had to order a few new books of stamps from the U.S. Postal Service

The real bonus is supporting the Postal Service. I mean, my mail carrier has been out there there every day, showing her worth. I want to thank her. I want her to keep her job. I want my goodies from Etsy to arrive and I want to see the surprise in the box at the end of my driveway every day.

And, really, how amazing is it that the structure to deliver a hand-written note exists?  Now more than ever, we should celebrate the United States Postal Service.  The mail matters. Show some love. Send a card!