I read something, hear a news report, and in my outrage declare I will write my legislator. Then the phone rings, and the moment is lost to the crisis of the day. As I become more involved in national affairs, I am convinced an individual's opinion really matter to our governmental representatives. They really do listen to their constituents.
Letter can and do influence and change public policy.
Well, first I have to know the names of my legislators and their addresses. This first step is actually quite easy. You don't even have to know your district. ACEP's 911 network will give you the name and background on all your national representatives. I once worked in my legislator's hometown.