These days we generally correspond through brief text messages, a phone call or a hastily written email. While of course this is handy, there’s nothing like receiving a hand-written card or letter in the mail. A beautiful note takes time, consideration, and interest in the recipient, so it’s even better when this continues over a lifetime. They’re something to treasure and refer to in times of joy, loneliness, or when in need of advice and comfort.
We looked to some well-known pen pals — there aren’t too many in recent years! — to see how putting thoughts down on paper can shape lives. Many of these friendships lasted years, forging lifelong bonds, influencing careers, strengthening spiritual lives, and even ending in marriage! Click on launch slideshow to get inspired to dig out your favorite pen and get writing!