awkward etiquette question

[oulfis]

okay, so, if I write someone a letter, and I'd kind of like them to write back -- is it totally gauche to include a self-addressed and stamped envelope?? Maybe with a card or sheet of stationery paper in it??

I think it might be nice to include such a thing because I'm sure most people don't already have envelopes/stationery/stamps etc on hand, and it might make writing back more fun (and more possible) if all they have to do is literally write a message and then send it.

But it also seems possibly rude because it's a lot more demanding?? Usually I send letters/cards not really expecting a reply at all, or at least not a reply in letter form (I understand that letters are very anachronistic, so most people reply to a letter by... texting me.) A self-addressed and stamped envelope seems like I'm burdening my friend with the expectation of a reply, and if they don't write back soonish, what if it sits on their desk mocking them for months?? I would be totally fine not hearing back, or hearing back months and months later, so I don't want to make it seem otherwise.

Basically -- would such a thing reduce stress, or add stress??

Comments

[chestnut_pod]

Maybe just the stamp! You can send anything of the right size through the mail as a "postcard," so the biggest, most demanding part (the envelope) may not be necessary. But a stamp is a nice thought.

[oulfis]

Oh, this is a great idea!! Especially since I have a bunch of extra US stamps that are useless to me here in Canada, they will have a greater hope of a fulfilling life with my friend regardless.