The art or skill of how to write romantic love letters, in today's technological and modern world, is sadly at risk of fading away. Many people have given up paper letters for electronic mail, and while some people do write romantic emails, they often do not last as long because of computer problems and hard-disk restores.

Historians are very thankful that it was a common practice to write love letters to one's beloved in years past. Through these letters, we learned a lot about the daily life of ordinary people in history, because love notes were usually cherished possessions that recipients and their families kept for years, even after the lovers died or separated.

When you begin to write love letters, it is good to keep in mind that you should use good quality paper and envelops, and a pen that will not fade or smudge. Remember that your letters should stand up to being folded, unfolded and reread throughout the years.

This isn't to say that there isn't great value in the spontaneous note scribbled on a scrap of printer-paper or the back of a napkin, such on the fly declarations of love may not last forever, but are an expression of joy in the moment, and your loved one will know you were thinking of them at the most inconvenient of times, and a napkin was all that was to hand. Not to mention the classic, lipstick on a mirror.

Take your time when you write love letters. The time it takes is as much a gift as the note or the sentiments it contains. Be specific, mention things your love may not know you have noticed, like the way he holds a cup, or the way she touches her hair. Turn each sentence over in your mind before committing it to paper.

If you are lucky enough to be the recipient of love letters, you should keep them, and keep them safely. If the love that you have doesn't remain, keep the letters safely tucked away regardless. It will be nice to look at them twenty years down the road with a healed heart.

A well written letter of love will be kept for many years, perhaps decades or longer, and may be passed on as a family heirloom. Perhaps more important, they can bring joy in to your love life right now, and in today's fast paced world, love letters can be an unexpected gift.