Are you a person who never forgets to write a note to others, no matter what the circumstances, especially to thank them for their kindness or offer help? I like to think that I’m that person, although I’m sure there have been times when I’ve let it fall through the cracks, meaning well but falling short. When writing that note, you’re going the extra mile to show you care.
One example comes to mind. When I graduated from high school, my Great Aunt Nita sent me a lovely card congratulating me and wishing me the best in my college years. I, in turn, sent her a thank you card for her card. Later, she remarked to my Mom that I was so kind to send a thank you card, especially since she didn’t send a gift or money. You see, even the simplest gesture is appreciated.
We shouldn’t forget the sympathy card. This card is so meaningful to the recipient and shows your support. Often these notes are read over and over, especially if your words are encouraging and hopeful.
There are different reasons to write a note: a wedding, retirement, goodbye, new home, baptism, confirmation, appreciation, graduation, get-well, surgery, birthday, sympathy, or holiday. Take a break in your day, pour yourself a cup of coffee or tea, and write that note.
With email and text messages readily available, we often take the easy way out. It is immediate, so it helps us not to forget, but I feel it is impersonal. Maybe you don’t feel you know the words to write a thank you note, a note of congratulations, or a sympathy note. I want to give you a few tips to make this task easier.
- Find a box or envelope to hold the items you need to write the note. I purchased a photo box to store these supplies.
- Have a few notecards. I use blank cards for many notes.
- Pen and stamps, along with your address book, to complete the task.
- A couple of templates to help with the choice of words.
- You may also want to purchase a book that outlines the different notes and lists the perfect words to express your feelings.
Having these supplies available helps simplify the task. Everyone enjoys getting something in the mail besides bills! I know that some will argue that it is more economical to email instead of spending $.55 for the stamp, but it’s a small price to make someone feel special.
Several books I found on Amazon (with links included) to assist you in writing notes are:
- On A Personal Note - A Guide to Writing Notes with Style by Angela Ensminger and Keely Chace
- My Deepest Sympathies...: Meaningful Sentiments for Condolence Notes and Conversations, Plus a Guide to Eulogies by Florence Isaacs
- A Modern Guide to Writing Thank-You Notes by Heidi Bender
- The Art of Thank You: Crafting Notes of Gratitude by Connie Leas
- A Little Book of Thank Yous: Letters, Notes & Quotes (An Etiquette Guide and Advice Book for Adults Who Want a Grateful Mindset) by Addie Johnson and Sherry Richert Belul
I wanted to include a few of my favorite words you might want to use in your note writing:
| -gracious | -appreciative | -honored | -supportive | -touched |
| -thrilled | -meaningful | -thoughtful | -encouraging | -unexpected |
| -amazing | -remarkable | -difficult | -unique | -wonderful |
| -sorry | -saddened | -healing | -comfort | -relief |
Please continue to write those meaningful notes, especially to those who might be ill or housebound. Check out my Pinterest account for more ideas, words, and positive sayings. https://www.pinterest.com/JulieSpirkFolkerts/_saved/
All my best,
Julie