How To Write A Letter To A Long Lost Relative
Introduction
Writing a letter to a long lost relative can be a daunting task, but it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. Whether you're looking to reconnect with a distant cousin, aunt, or grandparent, there are a few key steps you can follow to make your letter as effective as possible. In this article, we'll provide some tips and advice on how to format and construct your letter, as well as some content ideas that can help you connect with your relative and build a lasting relationship.
Step 1: Start with a friendly greeting
The first step in writing your letter is to start with a friendly greeting. This can be as simple as "Dear [Relative's Name]," or you can add a bit more warmth by saying something like "Dear Aunt Mary," or "Dear Cousin John." This will help set the tone for your letter and let your relative know that you're excited to reconnect with them.
Step 2: Introduce yourself and explain why you're writing
In the second paragraph of your letter, you should introduce yourself and explain why you're writing. If you haven't been in touch with your relative for a long time, they may not remember who you are, so it's important to give them some context. You might say something like, "I'm your cousin Sarah, and we haven't spoken in over 10 years. I've been thinking about you a lot lately and I wanted to reach out and see how you're doing."
Step 3: Share some personal news or updates
Once you've introduced yourself, it's a good idea to share some personal news or updates. This can help break the ice and give your relative a sense of what's been going on in your life. You might talk about your job, your family, or any hobbies or interests you have. You could say something like, "Since we last spoke, I've gotten married and had two children. I'm now working as a teacher and I'm really enjoying it."
Step 4: Ask about your relative's life
After sharing your own news, it's important to ask about your relative's life. This shows that you're interested in their well-being and helps build a connection. You might ask about their job, their family, or any hobbies or interests they have. You could say something like, "I'd love to hear more about what you've been up to since we last spoke. How's your job going? Are you still playing tennis?"
Step 5: Express your desire to stay in touch
Finally, it's important to express your desire to stay in touch. This will help ensure that your relationship with your relative continues to grow over time. You might say something like, "I've really enjoyed catching up with you and I'd love to stay in touch. Maybe we could schedule a phone call or even plan a visit sometime soon."
Content ideas for your letter
In addition to the basic structure outlined above, there are a few more pointers here
1. Introduction: Start your letter by introducing yourself and explaining your relationship with the recipient. You may mention some of your fondest memories with them, or simply express your excitement to reconnect.
2. Catching up: Update your relative on what has been happening in your life since you last saw or spoke to them. Share your current job, where you live, any milestones you have achieved, or new hobbies you have taken up.
3. Inquiring about their life: Ask them about their life - how they have been, what they are up to now, and if anything new has happened. This shows that you care about their wellbeing and are interested in reconnecting with them.
4. Sharing family news: Share any news about other family members that you think they would be interested in knowing. If there has been a family birth, marriage, or other significant event, make sure to mention it.
5. Apologizing: If there has been a rift or misunderstanding that led to the loss of contact, use this opportunity to apologize and make amends. This will show that you are sincere about reconnecting and rebuilding the relationship.
6. Expressing gratitude: Express your gratitude for the time you spent together and the impact they had on your life. This will show that you cherish the relationship and value their presence in your life.
7. Closing: Close the letter by expressing your hope to hear back from them soon and your excitement to reconnect. Provide your contact information so they can reach out to you easily.
Remember to keep the tone of the letter warm and friendly, and avoid any negative or confrontational language. This is an opportunity to reconnect with a long lost relative and strengthen your family ties.