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There is an old saying if you don't have anything good to say about something then don't say it.
Unfortunately, it doesn't always work that way.
We occasionally get letters to the editor that slam someone or some organization. Some are published and some are not. The ones that tend to be mild are those that make our columns. The ones that might end up in court do not.
But even if they are not full of hurtful words about someone or something they still no doubt cause pain through what they mean and what is said.
I might take something from what I have learned over the years and works for me.
If I have a story I am afraid may cause pain, I let it sit overnight and read it the next day. More often I will deal with how it will impact the subject and make some changes.
That might be good advice for someone who writes a letter to the editor.
It is not a good thing when something written causes someone discomfort.
It is also not good to say something hurtful then regret it later.