PAPER CONNECTIONS in
a
Digital
World
Postcrossings offers good old-fashioned pen pals By Laurie Hartt
I
n a world of pandemics and distance, it’s no doubt that technology has helped friends and families stay connected. And, while the digital age has certainly sent many older forms of communication to their graves, could it also be a reason they survive? Postcrossings makes a strong case for it. Blending web forums with an old-school pen pal approach, Postcrossings is an online platform offering a way for strangers around the world to send postcards to each other. Gelbman, a food columnist for Malibu Times, began Postcrossings about a year ago, when the pandemic’s isolation and boredom began to take its toll. Looking for something “social” to do, she decided to investigate the idea of pen pals, like she had as a child. She found Postcrossings—which appealed because it’s about fun, easy postcards instead of lengthy letters.
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“It’s just fun!” Gelbman said. ”It doesn’t take that much time or effort or energy. I probably like sending them more than I like receiving them because I know it’s going to make somebody happy. And I’m sharing a little bit of myself with a stranger I’ll never meet or see (or maybe have contact with again).” The process is easy: simply sign up for an account and create a short profile. When you’re ready to get mailing, choose the “send a postcard” button. From there, the website randomly assigns you the name and address of another person who has also signed up for the program. Once a recipient is assigned, you can view their online profile and tailor the postcard to the person. Add postage and a Continued on pg. 64
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Our governments and cultures might be different but we’re all just the same. We all just want to connect with each other and know we’re not alone. —Teresa Gelbman
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