Letters of Our Lives: A Deep Dive into The Correspondent
If you were asked to sit down and write a letter to someone important in your life, to whom would you address it? A dear friend? A former teacher? A favorite author? Someone you need to forgive--or need forgiveness from? The Correspondent by Virginia Evans is a novel told entirely through letters composed by Sybil Van Antwerp, a stubborn, 73-year-old retired lawyer living alone in Maryland. In Sybil's letters to friends, loved ones and even strangers, she explores themes of suffering, forgiveness, secrecy, family and connection. Evans describes Sybil as a person who “has survived trauma, grief, and lost love. She keeps her secrets close and edits her pain. The letters are so deliciously crafted, Sybil’s life itself becomes a work of art.” Sybil believes “the letters one sends out into the world, the letters received back in turn, are like the pieces of a magnificent puzzle…each letter means something.” In this program, participants will explore Sybil’s life and the variety of characters in the novel with whom she corresponds. We will make personal connections to the novel by writing our own series of letters to people who have impacted our lives. Please Note: Reading the book is essential to the program and should be read in advance of the gathering. You will enjoy it!
DATE: Thursday, July 23, 2026
TIME: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
COST: $40
LOCATION: Well for the Journey - 120 W. Seminary Ave, Lutherville-Timonium, MD 21093
REGISTRATION is required.
IMPORTANT: You will receive an email from programming@wellforthejourney.org at least 24 hours in advance of the start of your program. If you are unable to find the email, please check your SPAM or JUNK email folders. This email will include details to help you prepare for your program including any pertinent handouts, location information, and the ZOOM link for online programs. Please be sure you have received and read this email a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the start of the program. Thank you!
FACILITATOR: Liz Neal
FACILITATOR BIO: Liz has made journaling a routine practice for over 30 years. She has been blessed with a “heart for journaling” and now focuses on helping others discover the numerous benefits and insights that regular journaling and writing can bring to their lives. Liz and her husband live in Lutherville. She has worked in education as a teacher and administrator for over 32 years. She loves spending time with her grandchildren, reading, and traveling.