Do you like writing? You want to make new friends without leaving the comfort of your home? Corresponding with a pen pal can be a great way to channel your hobbies and desires! Think about what kind of person you would like to be as a pen pal, pour your life story freely into writing, and show a genuine interest in him so that the friendship built through these letters can last for years.
Step
Part 1 of 3: Getting to Know the New Penpal
Step 1. Choose the appropriate letter format
There are no set rules for letter structure for your correspondence, but many people prefer to use the 3-part format. A well-written letter will begin with an opening greeting, body of the letter (one paragraph or more), and closing.
- Greetings usually begin with the words, “Dear [name of pen pal],” and are always at the top of the page.
- The greeting will be followed by the main text. This is where you usually communicate with your pen pal in detail.
- Finally, in the closing section you will summarize or conclude your message. This third part usually consists of the last paragraph and a closing greeting such as, “Tabik” or “Salam”, followed by a signature.
Step 2. Write the body of the letter
This is the longest section and is usually filled with self-introductions, questions about things, and your thoughts. The body of the letter can consist of 2-5 paragraphs depending on the length of each paragraph.
- In your first letter, you should introduce yourself and tell only general things. Provide information about your daily life, hobbies and interests. Feel free to share things he may already know in the introduction letter.
- For example, you could write something like, “I am twelve years old. I live with my father and two sisters. I'm in sixth grade now and my favorite subject is history. In my spare time I like to read and play on Xbox.”
- Don't write about your whole life at once. You have plenty of time to talk about it once the friendship is closer.
- Provide specific information. For example, don't write that you enjoy watching movies, crafts, and sports. Instead, say that you love Marvel movies, knitting and embroidery, and cycling.
- As you get to know your pen pal better, you'll understand his point of view, sense of humor and ideas so you can respond in an appropriate way. You will also feel more comfortable expressing yourself and expressing your feelings to him. The more often you write letters, the easier it will be to find topics that interest both of you.
Step 3. Choose the information you want to share carefully
If you correspond with a friend in prison, do not share information that could be used against you. Letters received by the prison will be carefully examined and you will be in trouble if prison officials find out about your secret. For example, if you are an illegal immigrant, do not disclose this fact in the letter. Your letter could fall into the wrong hands. Information about earnings or salaries should also not be shared.
- Don't reveal too much information too quickly.
- Consider renting a postal box if you don't want to reveal your home address to strangers.
Step 4. Ask lots of questions
Show interest in your pen pal's life. Ask what his job, hobbies, and family are. Encourage him to share his thoughts on topics of mutual interest. Show genuine interest in pen pals and don't be shy about asking questions.
Show interest in your pen pal's life. Ask what his job, hobbies, and family are. Encourage him to share his thoughts on topics of mutual interest. Show genuine interest in pen pals and don't be shy about asking questions
Step 5. Don't be too curious
While you want to know as much as you can about your pen pal's life, don't forget about personal boundaries. If your pen pal lives in another country, he or she may have a different level of intimacy and comfort than you. Maybe he is reluctant to talk about certain topics openly. If you feel a certain reluctance in him, don't suppress him. If he doesn't answer a particular question, don't ask the same question. Consider it a sensitive topic.
- On the other hand, if your pen pal is frank and wants to emphasize certain boundaries, respect that wish. For example, if your pen pal doesn't want to talk about sexual or family topics, don't push.
- The same goes for you. Don't feel obligated to answer questions that are personal and make you uncomfortable. If a pen pal is trying to get an answer to a question that puts you in an embarrassing situation, there's no need to answer it. Try to say directly which topics you don't want to talk about. Like all friends, pen pals should respect boundaries and consider your feelings.
Step 6. Write the closing section
The last part of your letter is the closing. In the last paragraph, say goodbye and give him something to think about or answer. For example, you could end the letter with a few short sentences to conclude the main idea that has been laid out in the letter.
- For example, if your letter is about the joy of the holidays, you might write, “I hope the weather is nice so I can go to the beach. I want to swim again. Hows your holiday? Do you like the beach too? Or do you have a favorite vacation spot? I hope to get a reply from you soon.”
- Skip two lines, then write, “Greetings,” or “Take care,” or “See you in the next letter,” with your signature one line below the last word.
Step 7. Write the address on the envelope
You must write the intended address and return address (your address) on the envelope. Write your address in the upper left corner of the envelope. On the first line, write the name, then the street name below it, and on the third line write the name of the city, province, and postal code. Follow the same format for the recipient's address, but write it in the middle of the envelope.
- Don't forget to put a stamp. For your first letter, it's a good idea to take it to the post office so you know how much the stamp is worth, especially if your pen pal is overseas. If your pen pal lives in Indonesia, you can use regular stamps. Make sure that you are pasting a sufficient number of stamps.
- You can put the letter in the mailbox or take it to the post office for delivery.
Step 8. Patiently waiting for an answer
Like everyone, pen pals are busy people. Don't expect a reply the next day. If you don't get a reply after 2 weeks, send another letter or email (if you know the address.
Many people are used to instant answers via email, text message, telephone, and consider traditional correspondence a waste of time. However, one of the advantages of writing letters is that it teaches patience as it takes time to do so
Part 2 of 3: Building Friendship with Penpals
Step 1. Determine the preferred communication frequency
If you only want to write letters twice a month, tell your pen pal. You can also write weekly, or several times a week, but don't forget to tell your pen pal. There are no requirements on how often you should write letters, but always inform your pen pal what you decide. Share this information early on so he doesn't expect more than that.
If you want a pen pal who writes more often, but haven't got one, keep looking. Don't feel that you have to limit yourself to just one pen pal
Step 2. Include a small gift in the letter
Little things can be a pleasant surprise. If your pen pal lives abroad, he may be interested in the coins used in your country. If you find an interesting article that might suit his interests, you can attach it or mention it in the text of the letter. If you are very close to him and feel comfortable, send him a photo of you having fun.
- If you're writing to a pen pal in prison, ask if he or she can accept certain items before sending them. Each prison has its own rules about what is and is not allowed in private correspondence.
- Decorate your letter. If you like to draw, make small drawings or sketches as illustrations for the text. You can also add stickers as a personal touch.
Step 3. Comment on the story written by the pen pal
For example, if a pen pal mentions he got a new job, ask him if he likes it, if his coworkers are fun, and so on. Show interest in his life.
- If he asks a question, answer it. Be frank if you mind answering any of the questions.
- Ask your pen pal to send you photos of their pets, collectibles or artwork.
Step 4. Don't think of pen pal letters as a personal diary
To build a stronger friendship, you'll need to share your personal feelings and experiences with him, but don't go into detail about every single event that happened from the time you woke up until you went to bed again. Let the conversation between the two of you develop naturally.
- Tell me about an important event that happened in your life, such as a movie, concert, or drama. Write about dinner experiences, good or bad, getting awards at school, or learning to cook. Try not to just list facts like a reporter does, but also provide a thorough analysis of recent developments in your life.
- For example, instead of saying, "Yesterday I watched the latest Captain America movie," and stop there, say "I've seen the latest Captain America movie and I love all the characters from the other Marvel movies that are out there. In my opinion, in terms of cinematography and characterization, this superhero series is the best from Marvel. You must watch!”
Step 5. Discuss common topics
In a letter, you can discuss topics and issues that both parties are facing, such as recent news developments or your work. For example, you might write, “I sympathize with Presidential Candidate X very much. His programs are very interesting and I contributed to his campaign, even volunteering. what do you think of him? Are you going to vote?”
Step 6. Communicate with your pen pal over the internet
Use Facebook and other social media to communicate more closely. Communicating in this way will make the friendship more enjoyable while waiting for the letter to arrive.
Don't let communication through social media replace traditional correspondence. Modern means of communication are important and fast, but they will not replace the joy of writing letters
Part 3 of 3: Looking for a Pen pal
Step 1. Ask yourself why do you want a pen pal?
Are you doing research on a specific topic? Do you want to practice a foreign language? Are you interested in life and culture in another country and want to learn about it? Your interests and goals will determine who you will choose to be your pen pal.
- For example, if you want to learn German, try finding a pen pal from Germany, Austria, or another country where German is spoken.
- If you are interested in Japanese culture, find a pen pal from Japan who is willing to share information about the country.
Step 2. Think about your own interests and preferences
If you just want to make friends, it's better to get in touch with someone who shares your interests. Find a pen pal who is the same age and has the same hobbies.
- For example, if you're 17 and love punk rock, you probably won't get much from a 45-year-old office worker. Choose a pen pal that is interesting and excites you to write letters.
- There are various pen pal clubs designed for specific groups of people. For example, pen pal clubs are specifically for teens and preteens, while other clubs are specifically for students.
- Of course, to make good friendships, you don't have to look for someone who is exactly like you. Sometimes, we better understand ourselves and the world around us through interactions with different people.
Step 3. Use the internet to find pen pals
There are various forums and websites that bring people all over the world together. Pen Pal World, Penpals Now, Global Pen Friend can be options to find friends with similar interests and communicate with people from other countries by mail.
Some pen pal service providers are paid, while others are free. Both can provide a good choice of pen pals. We recommend that you learn the types of services provided and do not rush to register
Tips
- If your pen pal lives abroad, you may need a special postal service. Look for the information at the post office.
- Buy good quality stationery to make your correspondence experience more enjoyable.
Warning
- Make sure you write the address correctly on the envelope.
- If your friend is from another country, he or she may not understand everything you write (eg slang or pop culture references). Try to write clearly.
