There’s a word for it

“When we love someone, we share things with words. We share poems. We share songs. We share our favorite books. Because if we can make enough language bridges between the two of us, our hearts and minds will begin to know each other better.” ~Martha Beck

Cleaning out my desk last week, I ran across several folders stuffed with old greeting cards, notes, and letters. Some were from friends and family. There were Mother’s Day tributes from my son, letters of comfort sent after my mother died, Valentines from my husband, thank-you notes from friends. Another file contained encouraging letters from readers of my early newspaper columns — some typed, some written by hand, others sent via email.

Rereading all these words last week, I was grateful that each thoughtful letter writer had taken the time to write to me.

On darker days, I might replay or dwell on the negative things people have said or done. But last week, my stack of beautiful letters and cards lifted my spirits while underscoring the power of heartfelt language. Whether we’re talking about books or lyrics or letters, words can be the bridges between us. ~CL