Swap-bot

Did you ever have a pen pal? I did when I was a child. I found her name in the pen pal page at the back of an Archie comic. I remember the joy I felt when there was a letter in the mailbox "just for me"! I remember the fun of getting to know someone from across the world. As a teen, I remember writing letters every week to friends and family. Again, I remember how wonderful it was to "hear" from them and to write back and tell them what was happening in my life.

Somewhere along the line, letter writing became less of a priority. Then the internet came along, and email was all the rage. Snail mail became almost obsolete, just the occasional letter, birthday card, or holiday greeting.

Last year, my youngest daughter got a pen pal as a class assignment. Her excitement brought back so many fond memories. I decided to encourage her, by finding a pen pal of my own. What I found, along with a pen pal, was the Swap-bot community.

I've been wanting to write a review for weeks, but wasn't sure quite what to write. This morning I wrote a note to a Swap-bot friend. After writing the note, I realized that it would work for a review. So, here goes:

To some, Swap-bot is just a place to "trade stuff".

To others, it is so much more than just a website.

Swap-bot is a place that fuels creativity;

A place that encourages individuality;

A place where one can find inspiration, not just for artistic endeavors, but also for life;

A place that gives confidence in a time when you have none;

A place that cheers the disheartened;

A place where one can receive support when it's needed most;

A place that stimulates the imagination;

A place that prompts action;

A place to celebrate;

A place to be heard;

And above all, a place where a stranger can quickly become a friend.