About 15 years ago a friend of mine told me about a blog called PostSecret. The premise was simple: (1) an anonymous individual sends in a postcard, and (2) the postcard contains a true secret the sender has never revealed. The postcard may get posted on PostSecret. The idea sounded interesting, but I did not imagine having an emotional connection to so many of the secrets. Once I visited the site, I had to keep coming back every Sunday to view the new secrets. The secrets shared often touch on universal themes such as love, loss, fear, and hope, which resonate with many people. I still enjoy checking the blog ever Sunday, to see the new anonymous secrets that have been posted.
How it Started
PostSecret provides a platform for people to anonymously share their deepest thoughts, fears, regrets, and desires, creating a space for catharsis, connection, and understanding. The postcards are often decorated with artwork or other creative elements that reflect the secret being shared. The postcards and artwork can be funny, sad, depressing, and painful.
PostSecret was started by Frank Warren in 2004 as an experiment in community art, inspired by a personal project of his own. Almost every Sunday since 2004, Frank Warren selects and posts 20 postcards on the blog. Warren still personally goes through every postcard he receives in the mail.
Evolution
PostSecret has evolved over the years from a small personal project to a global phenomenon. What started as a blog, where Warren would post scanned images of the postcards he received has grown into multiple books, museum exhibitions, and live events where people can share their secrets in person. According to the website, since its inception, PostSecret has had 829,989,489 website visits, has 2,400,000 Facebook and Twitter followers and 1,600,000 hard copy books in print. I suggest following the PostSecret Instagram page. Despite all the success Warren has stayed true to his roots and PostSecret remains an advertising free blog.
PostSecret offers a glimpse into the raw and unfiltered thoughts and emotions of people from all walks of life. It is a powerful reminder of our shared humanity, the complexity of the human experience, and the importance of empathy and understanding. The project has also been credited with starting conversations about mental health, suicide prevention, and the power of art and storytelling. Overall, PostSecret’s relatability lies in its ability to tap into shared human experiences and emotions, creating a sense of connection among its audience.
Check PostSecret Out
Every Sunday evening, while I go through the new secrets, I experience a variety of emotions. At times, I am reminded how blessed I am and how much suffering some people endure in this world – whether it is emotional or physical. Sometimes, I laugh and other times I am left thinking about what I can do to help people. Regardless of the secrets, I always leave the site feeling grounded and with a deep appreciation for the complex world I live in.
I really hope you visit PostSecret.