Anonymous letters.

Byline: Raul J. Palabrica

HANDWRITTEN letters have certain qualities that set them apart from other means of written communication.

There is more warmth in this kind of letters compared to those written with the typewriter (yes, some people still use this device) or computer. The advantage though of letters written with mechanical assistance is they are easier to read and understand.

The latest communication gadget-texting-that some readers use is a turn-off. It is difficult to make heads or tails out of the abbreviated words used. The meanings of the words vary from sender to sender.

What makes handwritten letters special is the amount of effort that goes into their preparation. After physically writing (or rewriting) a letter, the sender puts it in an envelope, goes to the nearest post office to buy a stamp and then drops it in the mailbox. The exercise will appeal only to committed or dedicated readers.

Last week, I received a handwritten letter from Ms Eufracia A. Ardiente of Abuyog, Leyte. When I asked our research staff for …