Write to an Older Neighbour or Relative

Letter writing is considered a lost art, but now we have the time to find it again. We can use it to bless and encourage those who need words of support the most.

Letter writing is also a heartfelt way for you to communicate with some of the older relatives and neighbours in your area.

Most importantly, it is reasonably safe. Make sure to wash your hands before writing, sealing and posting the letter. And if you know or believe yourself to possibly be infected, then it’s best to just focus on your own health and situation right now. Perhaps pass the idea on to somebody else. Other than that, it is a reasonably safe way of earnestly communicating from a distance.

If the letter is to someone you don’t know all too well, or you are short of what to say, here are a few prompts for what you can offer:

• Ask how they are doing
• Offer to help with any essentials, food/shopping/gardening
• Encourage them to “pass it on” and write a letter to someone they know
• Offer to help them get set up for online video calls if possible
• Include your details if they would like to talk some more
• Upping it to a package, you could also include a book (puzzle or otherwise)

From small tokens of encouragement, you could send, as well as stationary to help you with your letters, we’ve put together resources to help you write to someone in need of compassion and companionship. Including:

• Pens and stationery
• Christian books about writing
• Prayer cards, pass around cards, and encouragement cards
• Small Gifts

Return to the list of practices for Christians during Coronavirus: https://www.eden.co.uk/blog/7-practices-for-christians-during-coronavirus-p1784105