VSmiLe (Letter+Video=VSmiLe)

“People smile in trouble, gather strength from distress, and grow brave by reflection.” --Unknown. VSmiLe was an invention before I knew I’d be assigned to complete one. Day one of remote learning, my Mother said, “During this time you’re going to learn the long lost art of letter writing.” I did not want to do it, but I wrote my first letter and it felt good. Everyday I’m given a new person to write. After writing the letter, I proofread it and make any changes. I practice reading the letter out loud and then record it on video; my Mother takes a picture of me holding the letter. Finally, my Mother text the person of the day the video and picture. I receive calls and text of how happy I made the person feel just by thinking of them during COVID19. My letter plus video equals smiles with no contact.