What to say when you don't know what to say

A gentle guide to first letters, for anyone who's ever stared at a blank page wondering if they're the right person to write.

You don't need to be eloquent. You need to be present.

Start with your first name and why you're writing. Share something ordinary — a book, the weather, a small kindness from your day. Avoid asking about their case; let them lead if they want to.

Consistency is the real gift. A short note every few weeks tells someone they are not forgotten, and that is the whole point.