Reflections on Travel Postcards: A Personal Journey

When was the last time you received a travel postcard? For me, it was September 11, 2010—a meaningful day for many reasons, but it left a lasting impression on me in more ways than one. Since then, this postcard remains a cherished reminder of the bonds we share with our friends and the unique experiences we encounter during our travels.

A Unique and Vintage Journey

The last travel postcard I received was a vintage Hawaiian postcard, a unique find made out of Hawaiian wood. This postcard held sentimental value not only because it was from a dear friend, Edan, but also due to its rarity and historical significance. It was first-class postcard, costing 0.81 cents to mail, which, while modest today, felt valuable for the times.

A Message of Adventure and Friendship

Edan’s postcard not only contained a stunning image of Hawaii covered in jungle fowl, known as jungle chickens, but also included a message that filled me with joy and a touch of envy. Edan was reporting from a psychic fair on the beach in Kauai, chasing ‘jungle chickens’—a term I had never heard before but one that intrigued me deeply.

For those of you who might be unfamiliar, junglefowl are wild ancestors of domesticated chickens. They are quite common in several Hawaiian Islands, including Kauai, making Edan’s encounter both whimsical and familiar.

Not Just a Card, but a Treasure

What made this postcard truly special was the fact that it reminded me of a trip to Hawaii with my late husband, a cherished memory during our marriage. Holding this card, I was reminded of the many great adventures we shared. More than just a card, it was a connection to the past and a symbol of the enduring friendship we hold dear.

The connection we share with our friends sometimes requires us to slow down and appreciate the moments that truly matter. Edan and I, both working professionals, often find it challenging to connect frequently. Months may pass between our meetings, but when we finally do, it's always the best of times. This friendship holds a special place in my heart, cemented over the years of shared experiences and support.

On September of this year, the five of us celebrated Edan’s birthday with lunch, a sweet testament to the enduring friendship between us. Though the good times had to end as we returned to our individual lives, the memories and the meaningful gifts, such as Edan’s postcard, remain.

So, whenever you receive a travel postcard, cherish it. It's not just a piece of paper but a connection to a place and a person that holds value in your life.

The last travel postcard I received was a unique piece of history that resonates with me deeply. It's a reminder that the journey of friendship and travel is filled with meaningful moments and memories, each worth more than the sum of its words. As we continue to navigate life's twists and turns, let's hold onto these fleeting moments and the people who make them meaningful.