My favorite part of sending letters or packages is certainly the final stage (or beginning, depending on how you look at it): the wrapping of gifts in special paper, tying it up with string, the brilliant use of tape (rendered invisible). This could also be seen as the first stage, since it requires one to hunt and gather for bits and bobbins like string, embroidery paper, lace, handkerchiefs, and antique postcards and photographs. Letter writing allows one to indulge more in ritual: the careful selection of stationary (which may speak for one’s personal taste and character, or for the consideration of the correspondent), the process of applying a wax seal, and fountain pen ink that smudges easily on paper or at least stains the writer’s hands.
While snail mail may have its shortcomings, the benefits of having a mailbox stuffed with postcards and letters from dear friends makes up for the fear that my life could abruptly end like George Costanza’s betrothed, Susan Ross, at the mere contact between envelope and tongue.
