About Xiqu Cards

Xiqu (say “shee-choo”) comes from a line in a Tang dynasty poem. It means to cherish: the time we have, and the people we share it with.

Why we made this

Most of us don’t need more reasons to care about someone. We need a little help saying it. A text that says “Thinking of you” can feel thin, and a long letter can feel like too much. These cards sit in between: a few true words and a picture, ready to send or print.

Every card is free to share. Each one carries a small web address so the person who receives it can find more.

Who is behind it

Xiqu Cards was started by a writer with a background in clinical medicine and psychology, and many years of advising people and organizations. The words on every card are written by hand, checked against research on how people give and receive support, and kept free of hype.

How the cards are organized

Each kind of card has its own illustration style, so you can tell a thank-you from a hard-day card at a glance. Read how we write them, or browse all cards.