In today’s fast-paced digital age, instant communication is the norm. But, the notifications and pings of our devices can become overwhelming. People seemed to have left the art of letter writing in the past. There’s something nostalgic about writing down your thoughts, emotions, and experiences on paper and sending them across the globe to connect with someone.
Enter the world of pen pals. Pen paling is an intentional way to build meaningful connections, and take a break from the digital age to enjoy the slow pace of letter writing.
Write to a Pen Pal
Writing a pen pal offers a refreshing break from social media and hustle culture. It allows you to slow down, savor the moment, and engage in a more thoughtful form of communication. You have the opportunity to share your life experiences, interests, and perspectives with someone anywhere in the world. Moreover, exchanging letters with someone from a different country provides a unique look into their culture, traditions, and daily life. This not only enriches your view of the world but also builds empathy and sympathy in the process.
Start Writing to a Pen Pal
Though writing a pen pal may seem daunting at first, it doesn’t take too much work. Here are five steps to begin your process:
Find a Pen Pal
First things first, you need to find a pen pal. There are tons of websites and online platforms dedicated to connecting individuals from around the world. Websites like InterPals, PenPal World, and Global Penfriends let you browse the profiles of potential pen pals based on certain criteria. You can select your preferences like age, location, interests, and language.
But don’t stop there. Do you have an old friend that moved across the country? What about the person you hit it off with on your last vacation? Or do you have family who lives farther away that you want to keep in touch with? The opportunities for penpals are endless. Once you find someone, reach out to them and express your desire to become pen pals.
Introduce Yourself
Like the saying goes, “first impressions are everything.” When writing your pen pal for the first time, introduce yourself. You can share things about yourself like your name, age, hobbies, interests, and any other details you feel comfortable sharing. Consider including fun facts that your writing companion can connect with or comment on. This includes information about your hometown, favorite foods, music, books, or travel experiences.
Ask Questions
To keep the conversation flowing and meaningful, ask your pen pal questions about their life, culture, and interests. Show genuine curiosity and interest in learning more about them and their country. Asking open-ended questions encourages them to share their thoughts and experiences.
Be Patient and Consistent
Building a relationship with a pen pal takes time and effort, so be patient and consistent. Set aside dedicated time to write regularly. It can be once a week or once a month, but make an effort to respond to their letters in a decent timeframe. Consistency is key.
Include Fun Items
Enhance your letters by including fun and thoughtful items. Your letter doesn’t have to be limited to just words on paper – it can also be a package filled with trinkets, collectibles and artwork. Consider including items that authentically reflect your personality, as well as things you’ve collected specifically for your pen pal. These could be anything from postcards, stickers, and bookmarks, to small souvenirs, local treats, or handmade crafts. Get creative!
Where to Find Pen Pals Online
- InterPals (www.interpals.net)
- PenPal World (www.penpalworld.com)
- Global Penfriends (www.globalpenfriends.com)