Dear Mr. or Mrs. Anonymous

It never ceases to amaze me how often people will send anonymously written letters to the editor.

Of course, we don’t publish them – no self-respecting newspaper in the world would publish an anonymously written letter to the editor, but still, people continue to send them.

It just seems like such a wasted effort.

Perhaps, they are just looking for some place to vent their frustrations, and I suppose that a newspaper editor is an easy target.

These anonymous messages come in all different forms.

Letters in envelopes, faxes, and e-mails – especially e-mails!

Now, some of you may be wondering why we require a name or names at the bottom of these published letters to the editor.

The reason is simple.

Without a name, there is no accountability, and there must be accountability or our newspaper would quickly become a forum for slander, misrepresentations and outright lies.

Some of you may be wondering why someone wouldn’t want to include their name at the bottom of the letter.

I’m guessing it’s because they fear being held accountable for whatever it is they have to say.

As far as I’m concerned, if it’s worth saying, it’s worth signing.

It’s unfortunate that so many people lack the courage to openly voice their opinion.

Too many, in my opinion, let the fear of stepping on others’ toes stop them from expressing themselves – even when they may have something important or meaningful to say.

To Mr. or Mrs. Anonymous, I want to say this:

Sign your name, or please, put down the pen!