Personal Letter

1. Definition

A personal letter is a type of informal written communication sent between individuals who have a personal relationship, such as family members, friends, or acquaintances. 

2. Aim

The aim of a personal letter is to communicate personal thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It may serve various purposes, such as:

• Maintaining relationships: Strengthening bonds between friends or family members.
• Sharing personal news: Informing the recipient about recent events or life changes.
• Expressing feelings: Conveying emotions such as gratitude, sympathy, or congratulations.
• Seeking or offering advice: Sharing advice or personal opinions in a friendly manner.
• Offering support: Showing concern or care for someone going through a tough time.

3. Structure

A personal letter follows a relatively flexible structure, but it generally includes the following parts:

• Sender's Address
• Date
• Salutation (Greeting)
• The greeting depends on the relationship with the recipient (e.g., "Dear John," "Hi Sarah," "My dearest Mom").
• Body of the Letter
• Opening: A warm introduction to set the tone of the letter.
• Main content: The core of the letter, where the writer conveys their personal message, thoughts, feelings, or updates.
• Closing: A final remark or sentiment before ending the letter.
• Complimentary Close 
• Examples :
• Love,
• Best wishes,
• Take care,
• Sincerely,
• With love,
• Regards,
• Your bestie,
• Your love.
• Best regards,
• Sincerely yours,
• Signature:
• The writer's name.

 4. Types of Personal Letters

• Friendly Letters: Written to friends or acquaintances to maintain personal contact and share news, experiences, or feelings.
• Family Letters: Sent to family members, such as parents, siblings, or grandparents, to share updates and express affection.
• Thank-You Letters: A form of letter used to express gratitude for a gift, favor, or kindness.
• Apology Letters: Sent to apologize for a mistake or hurtful action, expressing regret and seeking forgiveness.
• Invitation Letters: These are written to invite someone to an event or a special occasion, such as a birthday or gathering.
• Condolence Letters: Expressing sympathy and support when someone has experienced a loss or hardship.
• Congratulatory Letters: Written to congratulate someone on an achievement or special event, such as a promotion or wedding.

Examples :

Text 1

Pasar Senin, Jakarta

January 16, 2022

Dear Ratih,

It’s been a long time since we met. How are you? I hope you are doing well? I hope this letter finds you in good health.

As you know that vacation has already started, I was thinking of spending the vacations together in Jakarta. I want you to take you out on the city tour as well as introduce my friends and family to you. I would love to go out and have street food with you. 

I am just excited at the thought of me and you spending the vacations together. I just hope that you share your response with me and let me know if it possible for you to come to my place.

With lots of love,

Yours lovingly,

Vivi

Text 2

Pasar Kamis, Jakarta

July 15, 2023

Dear Setyo,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. Last week I got to know about your accident and I was highly depressed.

Thank God that he saved you from something very serious. Everything is going to be ok. I had a word with the doctor yesterday and he told me that there is nothing to worry about for the time being. Just a few more days in the hospital and you will be back home! I also had a talk with your mom and she was very upset with whatever has happened. But now she is happy that you are recovering.

I have good news for you. Your family and friends including me have decided to celebrate once you come back. My brother and other family members are also praying for your speedy recovery. Hope to see you soon and in good health!

Lots of Love,

Yours truly,

 Aditya

Text 3

February 11, 2024

Hi Alex,

I hope you’re doing well! I just heard from Sandra that you accepted the assistant swim coach position there. Congratulations! I know how challenging it can be to land your dream job right out of college, and I’m so honored to have provided you a letter of recommendation for that role. I know you will make an exceptional swim coach and make a real impact on the young athletes at UNS.

Congrats again. No one is more deserving of this role than you are, and I look forward to hearing about your new venture in person.

Sincerely,

Marcel

Text 4

Bantul, Yogyakarta

January 16, 2024

Dear Yuli,

I hope you are doing well. I know you are angry with me about what has happened at your birthday party. I wish to apologize and I want you to forgive me. I don’t our friendship to spoil.

I know whatever has happened was not right. The thing is I was not in a mood that day. My exams were not good and my mother really scolded me. I shouldn’t have behaved with you like that. I promise not to behave like that the next time. I am really sorry about what I said.

Hope you pardon me for my mistakes. Let’s meet if possible! Eagerly waiting for your response!

With love.

Yours truly,

Dian