Why letters are important: You can form wonderful friendships

Growing up, I’d always wanted a twin sister. As I got older, I understood that what I yearned for wasn’t so much a twin but simply a sister around my age.

I had the privilege of finally meeting such a person four years ago. Our encounter came in the form of a letter and drawing from Guadalajara, Mexico. More than 16 letters and seven photos later, both of us are all grown up and have become close friends, if not sisters.

Tania is the youngest of five. She was my first sponsored child. I knew we’d get along the moment I read how she signed her letter to me as “Thania.” (My favorite book character, Anne, from “Anne of Green Gables,” also added an extra letter to her name to add elegance!)

Through our letters, I learned we are only two years apart. I’ve also learned her favorite hobbies, books and bands. She’s a great artist but hopes to become a doctor one day. And I’ve realized our mutual love of smiley emojis in our correspondence.

Tania’s final annual photo for CI brings both joy and sadness to sponsor Cynthia Sappracone.

The more we’ve gotten to know each other, the more Tania has become an important part of my life. I feel as though she’s right beside me when I read her letters. She’s hardworking, determined and displays perseverance — qualities that will get her far!

A young lady with a big heart

I’m so proud of her for seeking a career that will allow her to help others and save lives. I admire her selflessness and her big heart. For instance, a first-aid class in high school introduced her to other health workshops. She also visited nursing homes and orphanages, where, she said, “We talked, played, drew. I even dressed myself as a clown to make the children laugh!”

It isn’t easy juggling school, work, extracurricular activities, volunteering and an active social life, and all the more so in a poor and violent neighborhood. But, like so many CI kids, Tania doesn’t use this as an excuse.

Rather, she is becoming the change she wants to see in the world by charging forward with the same optimism and hope that I’ve come to love about her. Just like my supporting her through sponsorship fills me with joy, giving to others has the same effect on her!

No obstacle is impossible to overcome with the right mindset! Tania’s victories are my victories, and I truly believe in her. Shoot for the stars, girl. I know you can!

Forming a true friendship

Tania doesn’t hold back from expressing her gratitude and appreciation. When someone helps her, she is sincerely grateful.

“Thank you so much for your support and for always helping me,” she wrote to me, after receiving extra gifts. “My family is really thankful to you, and we love you and wish you the best.”

Tania and two of her siblings were sponsored through CI. In this photo from 2012, Tania poses with her parents, her sister, Karina, and her brother, Luis.

My heart skipped a beat when I read that! It’s the first time I read that she and her family love me! (I love you, too, Tania!)

One thing I can stress is this: Never underestimate the joy that comes with writing your sponsored child. Looking back at everything we’ve shared, I am grateful Children International brought us together.

Exchanging letters makes it a 3-D experience! Our correspondence helped Tania and I cultivate a friendship that we both will remember for years to come.

A new chapter

Tania turned 19 a couple months ago and graduated from the CI program. She has come so far and has become a true ray of sunshine that brightens the lives of those she meets, especially mine. It was a bittersweet moment with tears of joy and flashbacks of fond memories. Hopefully, though, it won’t be goodbye — but, until we meet again.

☺

What are your favorite topics to discuss in letters? Tell us in the comments!