We invited the community of Columbia to write letters to someone important to them.
We mailed more than 40 postcards across the country.
Then, we asked some people to share their stories.
Taking a break from prom dress shopping or a jog around Stephens Lake Park, Columbia area residents and visitors reflected on those who were important to them: The running buddy holding them accountable. The strong mother or father they admire. The sibling they don’t see enough. The partner supporting their dreams and academic pursuits — even from another continent. The new relationship that still makes them smile when they think about that first date stargazing.
People scrolled through their phones searching for mailing addresses, commenting on how long it has been since they sent a letter.
And so many people stopped to say “thank you” for encouraging them to pause for a second and think about their loved ones on a sunny Friday afternoon or busy Saturday morning.
Here are some more of those stories people shared in downtown Columbia.
Stacy was walking her dog at Stephens Lake Park when she stopped to decorate a card for her big brother. She said she wanted him to know how much she cared for him and thought the card would make him smile.
Khesha decided to write a love letter to herself after going for a walk at Stephens Lake Park.
"I have been recently on this self-healing journey and reprioritizing self-love." -Khesha
Doug, who was visiting from Kansas City, shared how he met his wife in college when she invited him to listen to a speaker who was talking about faith.
"I'm thinking to myself, I did not want to go but I want to get to know the girl so I ended up going."- Doug
A Columbia high school junior shares and writes a card to a person she calls her best friend while prom dress shopping with her family.
"He is like my best friend."
While visiting his mother in Columbia, Bob sent a card to his wife, who he was looking forward to seeing at the airport when he returned home to California.
"She likes getting cards and letters."
This Mizzou student stopped to make a Valentine's postcard while shopping with her two friends in town. She showed her appreciation for her mother who has been a great example of love.
"She did a lot for me when I was younger."
Thanks to everyone who shared a story!
Created by Kendall Williams and Emily Lytle, Innovation in Focus staff at the Reynolds Journalism Institute
