"We're not worthy!!!!!"

December 20, 2007 9:13 PM

Help me write a mini-note in a holiday card to an influential person...

This past April, I had the chance to go on a school trip that involved meeting some of my favorite all-time artists. My birthday happened to fall during the trip and the one artist I wanted to meet the most (who happens to be quite well-known) was scheduled for that day.

To make a long story short, this man went out of his way to make my roommate (it was also her birthday) and I feel quite special that day. He even gave us numbered and signed prints of drawing studies he'd done on our birthdays 10 years ago. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. So much so that I nearly cried right then and there.

I am now in process of making out my holiday cards and am including him as a recipient. I'd like to send him a note with the card letting him know just how much that visit meant to me without sounding too fan-girl. However, I'm stuck on this......what should I write?

posted by arishaun to society & culture (6 comments total)

I'd suggest something like this:

"You went out of your way to make my roommate (it was also her birthday) and I feel quite special that day. It was one of the greatest moments of my life. So much so that I nearly cried right then and there."

I was moved.
posted by YamwotIam at 9:23 PM on December 20, 2007

What you said is perfect and touching. Except for the part about "my roommate and I," which should read "my roommate and me." Because I know you don't want to make a dorky mistake when you're writing to your honored benefactor.
posted by ottereroticist at 10:08 PM on December 20, 2007 [1 favorite]

Seconding YamwotIam and ottereroticist (that name is wonderful, btw).
It was one of the greatest moments of your life, and you felt special, and you almost cried. Why make that smaller by writing a less enthusiastic, sober little note? What's bad about sounding like a "fan-girl" if you quite clearly are a fan (and a girl)? :)
Being authentic is underrated these days. If he is as friendly and good spirited as it sounds, he will very much appreciate what you have told us here already. And yes, I was move too.
posted by Nightwind at 1:52 AM on December 21, 2007

I agree with the above. Be sincere. The one thing I would suggest is not to go on too long - what you said above is short and honest and very moving. The more you say, the more danger you have of making the recipient uncomfortable, especially if you're just repeating yourself. Try to keep it to just a few sentences. He'll remember you, so you don't need to recount every detail of the day.
posted by marginaliana at 7:19 AM on December 21, 2007

Thanks everyone! I adapted what I wrote above into the following:

"Esteemed Benefactor,

On April 26 2007, you made a young photographer feel like a very special person. It was my 26th birthday and I had been doubting myself and my art. I will never forget the kindness you showed me and my classmates. Thank you.

May the coming year bestow many blessings upon you and your loved ones. The world needs more people such as yourself. Here's to hoping our paths shall cross again."

Not quite what I wrote above, but I dig it. Thanks again!
posted by arishaun at 3:39 PM on December 21, 2007

Well done, arishaun.
posted by YamwotIam at 6:14 PM on December 21, 2007