Write a letter, scan, send and smile in the time of coronavirus

Dubai - People have rediscovered the joy of writing letters, to instill hope during these testing times

As you read this, a unique exchange of positive words and stories is taking place in the world. People have rediscovered the joy of writing letters, to instill hope during these testing times. "We turned one of our existing projects, Letter Earthlings, which included writing letters to strangers into a digital activity called Letters in the Time of Corona. People can now request for letters for loved ones who are going through a tough time," says Sonia Parekh, co-founder of Goodwill Tribe, a non-profit based in India.

So far, they've received three letter requests and five letter writers from the UAE. You can request a letter for yourself too, or sign up as a volunteer writer. Once you submit the letter, it will be scanned and sent to the recipient. "It's our chance to build gratitude and kindness. There's no better way to connect with another person than sending them a letter to tell them they aren't alone," says Shweta Mayekar, a Dubai-based student, a volunteer. So, what should one write? "The letters must be positive and motivating with the simple aim to spread smiles," says Sonia.

purva@khaleejtimes.com

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