STAMPED

‎Nine days before Christmas, I did something I haven't done in a long time -- send real greeting cards via air mail. It wasn't something that I planned. The idea just came out of nowhere.

I was tasked by my principal to accompany our student writers for a campus journalism competition. Right after the contest proper, we all headed to the mall for lunch. We agreed to meet up after a few hours. I dropped by a bookstore to search for books that I could read for the holidays. I couldn't find any that caught my interest until I saw the greeting cards section. I scanned a few and before I knew it, I had at least five on hand. I, then, searched for a cozy spot in the food court where I could write a short note for the people who will be receiving my cards. After I sealed the envelope, I was ready to go to ... (drum roll, please!)... the POST OFFICE! As I was about to leave, I ran into my students who were on their way back to the venue. I told them that I just might come a little late because I had to mail a few Christmas cards. To my horror, they replied, "Huh, Ma'am, uso pa ba yan? Wala na po atang post office ngayon." Then, it hit me, these days, no one really goes out of his way to send cards or letters via mail. Okay, so I'm too old school. Fine!

You might not agree with me but nothing really comes close to a handwritten letter. It is much more personal than an email or e-card that reaches the receiver in a matter of seconds. A handwritten letter has a heartwarming way of making you feel special because the sender took some time and effort to let you know that he cares...

POSTSCRIPT: I could not believe when the lady behind the window asked for Php55.00 for each! The last time I sent a card, I was charged Php18. Was it really that long ago??