Staying connected to loved ones can be difficult. There always seems to be something that gets in the way of keeping in touch. Even those that live in the same house may not see each other enough, as jobs, school, extra-curricular activities, and other obligations pull family members in different directions. There are ways, however, to keep the lines of communication open – and thriving.
Hand Written Notes
Though out of vogue for many, hand written notes offer a wonderful means of communication. For years, I’ve slipped loving notes into my children’s lunches and even in my husband’s briefcase. I do so on special days or when I could sense they were feeling down. In return, they have started to leave me surprise notes. It might seem hokey, but these scribbled messages do foster closeness.
Another benefit of hand-written notes is that they can help with family logistics. My teen daughter will many times leave a sticky note on the bathroom mirror when she goes to bed at night. She does this to remind me about specific school events, to ask for money, or to get her up at a certain time to study. Since she’s started this practice, mornings go a lot smoother in our household.
Digital Communication
In addition to old fashioned ways of communicating, one should not be afraid to embrace new ways of keeping connected. From emailing, to texting, to sending a Facebook or Snapchat message, there are plenty of ways to interact with loved ones and friends.
Unfortunately, there are those of a certain age who refuse to jump on the bandwagon. My sister in law refuses to do any of the above. Little does she know, her teen daughter yearns to be able to text her mother quick messages.
Snail Mail
I still advocate for snail mail. Since we all still receive mail, and most of it consists of bills and junk, why not brighten a loved one’s day with a beautiful greeting card? It may be easy to send a electronic birthday or get well card, but sometimes a more personal greeting is in order.
For example, my 20 year old daughter reported that when she found my letter in her mailbox while away at school she laughed and cried. She enjoyed seeing my handwriting, and the money I had slipped inside made her happy as well.
Sure, stamps have went up in price, and cards may cost $2 or more, but the love that pours out when an envelope is opened by the recipient has infinite value.
Non-Verbal Love
A final easy way to communicate: non-verbally. It costs nothing to hug someone or to give them a smile. Sometimes, even the shaking of friend’s hand can do wonders for their sagging spirits.
My son, who lives in Japan, often states how he misses my hugs. While that breaks my heart, at least I know that even if he is 22, he realizes the value of communicating love through human contact.
(Photo courtesy of Sanja Gjenero)
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