WRITING LETTERS OF ENCOURAGEMENT
Many of the memories we make in life we purposely set out to create, like birthday parties, picnics, and vacations. But sometimes the unexpected happens, like COVID-19. It’s when the unexpected happens, that my thoughts often turn to how to make this situation better for the person who is hurting, how to make a brighter spot in the midst of a miserable situation. The COVID-19 crisis is particularly challenging, because we are asked to stay at home, so touching people’s lives with our presence is not always possible right now. But sending mail is still possible! A heart-warming letter of encouragement to so many who are struggling takes just a few moments of our time, and can bring a smile to a weary soul. Below you will find a list of 45 groups of people who could use a bit of cheering right now, an encouraging word, a reminder that someone is thinking of them and praying for them, and that they are appreciated.
It would be a great family project to come up with names of friends and family that you want to write notes to at this time. Set aside a particular time to sit together at the kitchen table and write letters, maybe Sunday afternoons. The littlest ones, who cannot yet write, can draw pictures. It’s not only a fun project, but it helps children to realize the importance of caring for one another and expressing that care and love.
How many people do you know from this list that are impacted by COVID-19? These people need our kind words right now more than ever!
parents who are suddenly homeschooling
doctors
nurses
mail carriers
Amazon delivery person and employees
UPS delivery person and employees
FedEx delivery person and employees
pastors
the tech team at your church that is bringing you streaming church service
grandparents
elderly relatives
people in nursing homes
new moms
someone who’s lost their job
a relative who lives alone
people with mental health struggles
small business owners
day care workers
teachers
librarians
trash collectors (tape a note to the trash can)
pharmacists
your local military base
U.S. service members serving stateside
U.S. service members serving overseas
your extroverted friend who is struggling with isolation
those whose wedding plans have been cancelled or scaled down
soon-to-be college grads who have had graduations cancelled
soon-to-be high school grads who have had graduations cancelled
families with an “at risk” family member
farmers, whose hard work supplies our grocery shelves with meat and produce
nursing home workers
anyone who works at a doctor’s office or hospital (receptionists, billing personnel, etc.)
firefighters
EMTs
grocery store employees
veterinarians and their staff
music teachers
dance teachers
airline employees
media employees
friends who work in the tourism industry
social workers
bank employees
dentists