Do you remember the last time that you received a handwritten note?  Not just a birthday card with the sender’s signature at the bottom, but a thoughtful handwritten card or even (gasp) a full letter?  It’s probably been a while, right?  Letter writing is somewhat of a lost art, but there is something special about receiving a note that has been crafted just for you. 

In our everyday lives, we might send a handwritten note to thank someone for a gift, encourage a friend, or even as a personal follow-up to a job interview (pro tip: small touches like this can make you stand out). In ministry, we might send a handwritten note to thank our retreat volunteers or share a verse or prayer that God has placed on our heart for a specific person that week.  There is a power that comes with putting pen to paper.  The words written in an email or text simply do not carry the same weight and meaning as words handwritten on a page.   

Are you looking for a way to show someone you care?  Take the time to compose a thoughtful, handwritten note or letter.  Here are some tips to make it stand out: 

• Put some thought into your content.  Share something that will brighten their day and make them feel valued. If there is a specific quality that you appreciate about them, mention it!  
• Consider using special stationery or a decorative card instead of just notebook paper.  Or better yet, if you’re crafty, make a card yourself! 
• Send the card in the mail, even if hand delivering it is an option.  The excitement of getting something unexpected in the mail makes getting a letter even more special. 
• Include a Bible verse that God has been using in your walk with Him.  If you have been led to pray for this person, share what God has placed on your heart. 
• If appropriate, include a small token that the recipient might enjoy.  This could be a sticker, bookmark, recipe card, seed packet, flat magnet, or even a hand-pressed flower. 

In a world filled with emails and texts, handwritten notes have become the exception.  The next time that you want to express your gratitude or let someone know that you’re praying for them, put your device down and pick up a pen.  Take a little extra time for a much bigger impact.