Sending Christmas cards is a tradition that dates back to early 19th-century England. Thanks to social media, our busy schedules and a plethora of other excuses, it’s one we’ve fallen away from.
But here at The Anastasia Co. we firmly believe that it’s important to spread Christmas cheer with some good old fashioned snail-mail cards. And if you’re wondering, the prime time to send your cards is after Thanksgiving, aiming for them to arrive the second week of December.
Here are seven reasons you should bring the tradition of sending Christmas cards back in your own family.
1. Cards provide a tangible touch.
A Christmas card is a tangible way to show your friends and family that you care. A card takes time and effort; it shows you took a few moments to think of the recipient and share a few kind words. It’s a small gesture to say “I love you.”
2. Handwriting is personal in the digital age.
It’s easy to fall back on sending a Facebook message or shooting a e-card to a mass list of email addresses. But in today’s digital world, handwriting is a personal touch that we see less and less. Just a sentence or two is all it takes.
3. A Christmas card can be kept for years to come.
When you send a photo card year after year, it’s like a mini photo timeline of how your family has grown and how your kids have grown. Not only will your recipients want to hold onto it, you’ll want to keep a copy for yourself, too. Unlike a text message which will be gone almost instantly, Christmas cards are worth holding onto.
4. It’s a piece of mail that is sure to bring a smile.
Any adult knows that when there’s something other than bills in the mail it’s an exciting day. Let your card be that happy piece of mail. A handwritten address rather than a printed name on a bill-sized envelope will bring a smile to the recipient’s face before they’ve even torn it open.
5. Christmas cards keep you connected to people.
If you don’t see some of your family and friends in person often, cards are a way to stay connected and show you care. Writing a longer note — a little life update of sorts — is a thoughtful way to keep them in the loop on happenings in your own life.
6. People enjoy displaying cards in their home.
What’s a more joyful Christmas decoration than cards from friends and family? Whether they feature classic holiday sayings or photos of those you love, cards add to the heart of the holiday season, which is love.
7. Cards are a chance to point others towards Christ.
The best part about Christmas cards is that you get to decide exactly what they say. While the saying may be cheesy, Jesus truly is the reason for the season. You can use your cards to share a bit of the Nativity story or tell others how God has worked in your life in the past year.
I love sending Christmas cards I feel like they always give a special touch to the holidays.
Christmas cards are so beautiful. They convey a sense of peace. I love to display them like my Mum used to in 50s and 60s.
Great piece Jillian! This time of the year is the only time to open the mailbox and see photos and updates of loved ones. I love to display all of the cards too!
Thank you Jullian, for writing this article about the purpose of sharing Christmas cards because I never really gave Christmas cards to anyone, but this year I want give Christmas cards to my colleagues and tell them the truth about this season: Jesus. Let them know that He is the giver of life and the One that gives us joy every Christmas. John 1: 1 -13.