Super Squirrel Speaks!

Last week we asked our members a very simple question:

Why do you penpal?

We've heard from our members, now it's Super Squirrel's turn to share why she penpals!


"When non-snail mailers ask why I write letters, I often reply that I penpal because I like getting mail that isn't a bill or a flyer. That's my most superficial reason for penpalling and the easiest for people to understand if they don't write letters themselves.

The real reason I penpal is because of the connection, the friendship. I live in a city that very much makes me feel like a fish out of water. It's difficult finding people who like the things that I do, and like them the way (ie: to the same degree) that I do. But because of penpalling, I've been able to find people who see the world the same way I do. Penpalling allows me to connect with kindred spirits and bond over shared geek loves.

I also prefer writing as a method of communication. I'm a huge introvert, a total wallflower, and it's difficult for me to talk to people that I'm not 100% comfortable with. Words just refuse to come to me. But when it comes to letter writing, I can take the time to think about my words and how I want to convey my thoughts. It also saves me from saying something ridiculous that I will regret later, and from being interrupted and talked over by others. In other words, letter writing gives me a voice and a medium to be myself that I wouldn't otherwise have."
- Laura, AKA Super Squirrel