A pen pal is someone to whom you write and receive cordial letters despite the fact that you have never met. The term was coined in 1872 by Dr. Richard M. Stanley who wrote to an old friend, asking him to send him some more postage stamps. In his letter, Dr. Stanley mentioned that he also had a friend named John Taylor who lived near him in London. He added that they could be considered pen pals because they were both from out of town and didn't know any people here yet. Today, the term "pen pal" is used to describe two people who communicate with each other through letters or online messages. Some pen pals may even meet in person once or twice. Whether it's one real friend helping another out, or several friends helping each other, the spirit of the original concept is still very much alive today! In addition to writing letters, you can now send instant messages, phone calls, emails, and even video chats with your pen pals. It's really up to you how far you want to take your friendship. But no matter what mode of communication you use, make sure you keep the tone positive at all times!