Valentine’s Day is next week and you want to let your sweetheart know how much you care.
Why not do it through the U.S. Mail?
“There’s nothing more treasured and sacred than a love letter. Unlike the spoken word, it’s in print and can be read and reread over and over,” said Jane Greer, a New York-based marriage and family therapist, radio host and author whose books include “What About Me? Stop Selfishness From Ruining Your Relationship.”
One way to make sure your letter gets read again and again: Be specific.
“Make sure you start with something personal and unique so it can’t apply to anybody else,” Greer said. “If they have a wonderful laugh, a sensitive touch, a cute expression they make, you could say, ‘I love your… .’”
You should also include what makes the recipient so lovable, then describe how it makes you feel.
Greer — who offers relationship advice on her website, drjanegreer.com — also suggested meaningful phrases like, “When we’re together, I feel so relaxed”; “I have so much excitement for the future”; or “I feel understood by you, you really get me.”
There are dual benefits of writing a love letter, Greer said.
“For the writer, it reaffirms your passion, your devotion and your commitment. For the receiver, they get a sense of security and comfort in the intimacy of your bond, and feel valued,” she said.
Other tips:
• Use a pet name, if your special someone has one. “Saying, ‘You’ll always be my honey bunny’ really speaks to exclusivity to them,” Greer said.
• Say where the relationship is going. “If it’s a new relationship, you can say that you want the relationship to last. If you’re engaged or married, stress that the relationship was a good choice for you.”
• Avoid being generic. You don’t want to say something that’s one size fits all. Greer recalled treating a patient who received a letter that was “so generic and non-specific that it seemed lifted out of a book.”
The Postal Service has a tip, too: Be sure to affix a new Made of Hearts stamp before mailing your letter.
“A letter demonstrates your commitment and the feelings you have for this person,” Greer said. “It shows how significant and important they are to you because it takes time — it’s not a text or email.”