Son,

I can be thoughtful – and I can be sarcastic. The sarcasm is a strategy learned many years ago while growing up. It is an old recipe, handed down through generations in my family. I have used it well to win fights – and I have lost many wars. You have heard me say this before. Sarcasm is a toxic elixir – it poisons conversations.

Sometimes I get wound up on an issue and before I think about it I am off on a sarcastic rant – then I remember the lessons of my life and I calm down for a while. I prefer my calm self. I prefer my calm writings. I prefer thoughtful discourse and I will try to remember that.

I have written several letters to the Editor of our local newspaper over about thirty years – I write well when I keep in mind that the Editor will not publish sarcastic anger. These blogs can be dangerous – there is no filter – no voice of reason to restrain the writer.

I am aware that I am talking to my son. That should be enough to try to set a good example. But I am also talking to many folks who have chosen to visit our site. I will try to be sensitive to their desire for thoughtfulness.

Dad