“Conversations to Remember” Letter Writing Event - Abigail Arnett

 

Participating in Conversations to Remember reminded me how powerful simple acts of compassion can be. During the event, hosted in partnership with Sisters in Sync and Love for Our Elders, I spent time writing letters to elderly people who are experiencing isolation or emotional withdrawal. While it might seem like a small gesture, I realized that words have the power to comfort, connect, and heal — even across generations.

As I wrote, I found myself thinking about how many people feel unseen or forgotten, especially elders who can’t visit family or take part in everyday activities. It made me slow down and really reflect on what emotional wellness means — not just for others, but for myself too. The event helped me understand that empathy doesn’t always have to come from direct interaction; it can exist in the care we put into our words and intentions.

This experience strengthened my sense of purpose as a future physician. Medicine isn’t only about diagnosing and treating — it’s also about listening, affirming, and reminding people that they matter. Writing those letters reminded me that kindness is its own form of healing, and it inspired me to carry that same intentional compassion into every part of my journey.

Example of letter: