I sometimes write three letters a day, letting people know they’re appreciated. I write to family and friends, but I’ve also sent compliments to postal workers and store clerks.
Why am I so passionate about affirming letters? I know they can change a recipient’s life. My father grew up in a working-class family and thought he was destined for a job as a manual laborer until his high school chemistry teacher gave him a card that read, “A remembrance for my chief chemist of last year. I hope you will try hard to get on to college somewhere.”
Not only did Dad go to college, he earned a Ph.D. and became a professor and later a dean at the Naval Academy.
People told me they liked the idea of writing affirming letters, but didn’t know where to begin. So I put together a workshop and workbook called Leave Nothing Unsaid. Tips include: keep letters simple, share how the recipient affected your life, be sincere.
This fall I sent a note to a diner commending a great waitress. Management gave her an award. A simple letter of affirmation can have far-reaching effects. Write one, and you’ll see!
Learn more about Someone Cares!
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