"Two years ago, I came up with the idea to email my grandmother every Friday. I keep her up-to-date with my travels, and she offers advice and keeps updated about family news. Our messages help me feel connected even when I'm so far from home. Growing up, I often lived in a different state or country from my grandma, who turned 106 years old in June."
"My grandma prefers emails to other forms of communication because her hearing isn't great for calls, and it's hard for her to read small handwriting. It's also easy for her to forward emails to other family members, as she's the point of contact for many. I like emailing, too, because she's one of the few family members I contact this way, so it feels special."
She began emailing her 106-year-old grandmother every Friday two years ago to maintain a closer relationship while living abroad. The emails include travel updates, family news, and advice. The grandmother prefers email because of hearing loss and difficulty reading small handwriting, and she can forward messages to other relatives. The weekly messages function as a digital journal and make distance feel smaller. The emails use warm salutations like 'Dearest Catherine' and end with 'Lovingly, G'ma.' The ritual provides emotional connection, continuity, and a unique account reserved for their exchanges. They also bring simple pleasures, like updates about blooming flowers and emojis.
Read at Business Insider
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