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FAQ

Why postcards? 

Postcards are tiny agents of serendipity. Without an envelope, their message is open for the world to read (there is a long tradition of guiltlessly reading strangers’ postcards). The subtext of postcards is both discovery and connection; they whisper of adventure, exotic places, and possibilities shared.

Why anonymous?

Two reasons. 

  1. When the messenger is unknown, it’s easier to focus on the message. For example, when I spoke out loud (or sent signed notes) to people I love, they filtered my words through their lens of “but that person loves me so they’re biased.” Anonymous messages of gratitude, appreciation, kindness, and support say that “someone out in the world saw something wonderful in me.” That person could be anyone, anywhere. 
  2. Without an attribution, these love letters carry no social obligation to acknowledge or reply. They are gifts without strings. 

Why snail mail? Why not social media?

There’s very little effort required to send messages on the internet, and so there are a lot out there … people are drowning in them. On social media it’s easy for the good stuff to get lost in the maelstrom of advertising and shitposting.

Paper postcards require focused intent and effort: making or purchasing the card, buying postage, writing the note, and finding a mail box. A physical postcard reinforces the message “you are special. Someone noticed and invested time and energy to tell you so.”

If social media is so awful, why are you sharing postcards there?

When it’s not being a cesspit of delusion and despair, the internet can be an amazing way for people to find each other. I hope people who discover this project are inspired to commit random acts of kindness via post. I hope that the people who need it most get postcards reminding them that they are important.

Why do this at all?

  • There is always space in the world for more kindness.
  • Anything that gets us out of our own heads and connected to other people is a Good Thing.
  • There’s power in intentionally looking for the good in the world, in being open to wonder, and in sharing the delight we find with others. Virtuous circles are contagious.
  • Postcards can be a small step along the journey of living net positive.

What if the intended recipient never sees their postcard?

I trust that the message on the postcard will find the people who need it. That may be the addressee, but it may also (or instead) be a postal carrier, the person who sorts the mail, a neighbour, etc.

I got a postcard.

Awesome! I’d love to hear about your experience.

Someone has inspired me. Will you send them a postcard?

No. But if you do, I’ll share it here. How to get your postcard included.

I’m a visual artist, will you put my image(s) on a postcard?

Maybe? Let’s talk about it.

I have some ideas for messages.

Brilliant! Tell me more.

Where did this idea come from?

A comment on social media gone horribly awry. Through happenstance, jet lag, and synchronicity I stumbled across a reasonably well-known artist (I am not their core fan demographic). Something about the way they approach their work and life triggered an epiphany. I was overwhelmed with gratitude, posted a long, passionate comment to that effect, and immediately regretted it. I joked with a friend that I really should have just sent a postcard … and here we are.

In the unlikely event that the catalyst for this adventure reads this and recognises themself, thank you for being terrifyingly amazing.

OK, I’m intrigued. Who is this amazing artist?

The way we experience art is deeply personal. What resonates with me might not make any sense to you. Think of someone whose marks on the world inspire you, motivate you to be a better person, open up a different perspective, or help you feel connected. They’re your amazing artist. Maybe send them a postcard?

Who are you, anyhow?

A stranger on the internet, trying to make the world a tiny bit brighter. This story isn’t about me.

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

Matthew 7:20 (King James Version)

I have other questions. How can I get in touch?

Send a note via poste restante.