Sometimes it is hard to say something out loud. Not only to others but also to ourselves.
Usually, it is much easier to write something down.
Diary is great for organizing your thoughts, dealing with tough situations and difficult feelings. You do not even have to preserve it. Write it down and burn the paper right away if you do not want to leave a trace.
Writing an email or chat message to others is easy nowadays. In the past, people send to each other lengthy letters as it took time and money to deliver them. Now you can send short email to your wife, friend or son on a daily basis. Write that you love them, that you appreciate something they did, or even if you disliked something.