Stamps are only 39 cents

What ever happened to the idea of "penpals"? Ever since the internet was created, the idea of a letter going through snail mail was laughed at. I don't know about you, but I LOVE getting snail mail. Granted I cringe when I see a bill or something of that nature, but it's mail nontheless. I am sad when I open my little mailbox and find nothing inside. A huge smile is brought across my face when I see familiar handwriting. You know what I'm talking about. You get that little thrill, that burst of joy when you find a letter from someone you care about. I mentioned the idea of penpals to a friend of mine. I thought he would gladly play along. But it turns out instant messaging and the phone are easier for him. Now, I don't negate that form of communication. I am always on the internet and always chatting online. I do admit that because of instant messaging, I've kept some great friendships alive. But it's just not the same. It satisfies that urge for instant gratification, yes. But when they're talking to you via IM, they haven't taken the time to sit down, pull out a pen and paper, and start writing. There's just something beautiful about that. You can call me a packrat, but I've kept such letters/cards. I have many memories of my mom through cards that she has sent me. I remember when I was little, I could never read her handwriting. It's this beautiful cursive script. So tight and compact. Where mine was large and bubbly. I now look at her handwriting and it brings such warmth and joy to me. I can recognize it a mile away. No one writes like her. I cherish every letter, every card, every signature. Because they're from my mom. She took the time and the thought to tell me how proud she was, how much she loved me. She also does this via email but I can't see her writing. I can't see the way she makes her Ms and Ns through electronic mail. When I am missing my mom, all I have to do is go find a card from her and it's as if she's right there in the room with me. Ok, ok. I know mom's are different. But just think about the "old days". How people would wait days, weeks, months! For that letter to arrive from their friend or loved one. I think that we should bring back snail mail penpalling. Yes, penpalling. It's now a word. Don't argue. So...who's with me?

PS. Google the word penpals. It's fascinating!