April 07, 2008 09:38 am
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Got a problem you'd like to share with Sidney? Write to her at: The Meridian Star, P.O. Box 1591, Meridian, MS 39301 or e-mail her at sidneycovington@comcast.net. All submissions are confidential and go directly to Sidney.
Dear Readers,
Let me take this opportunity to address a few things that people have asked since this column began.
The letters that I receive – be they via Internet or U.S. mail – are seen only by me. When they are sent to me, care of The Star, the folks there are diligent in seeing that I get it within 24 hours. More often than not, when a letter comes to me from the Internet, I do NOT know the writer. If the writer shares their name with me, I do not publish it unless they specifically request that I do so. I do not change basic concepts of anyone's letter. However, I will touch up an occasional misspelling or grammatical misstep. As with all e-mail, I do not know the geographical locations of most of the mail unless it's shared with me by the author. And, yes, those people do actually exist and yes, those are actual problems and no, they are not all from Meridian.
Many of you have said, "I'm going to write you about such-and-such" and then you say, "But I don't want anyone to know it's me." Trust me ... We ain't all that different!! What you think is a unique situation is most like being experienced by others – we just don't know it. Also, I value your anonymity and I guard your confidentiality, therefore great care is taken to ensure both remain intact.
I do get letters from people asking for my attention to "just them." Unfortunately, I'm not able to carry on a running e-mail dialogue with everyone, but I do answer each e-mail that I get as well as any "regular" mail when a reply is indicated.
When The Star first approached me about considering doing a column, I wasn't sure how it would be accepted, or even IF it would be accepted. However, you have been more than gracious in your supportive words and kind remarks. Yes, I've taken a whipping from a few people as well, however, most everyone of those few have been very kind in their admonishments and I appreciate their input just as much. So, please, keep the letters coming and I'll keep sharing them!
Love,
Sidney
• Sidney Covington has a master's degree in counseling. She is a patient advocate and public relations representative for Riley Hospital.
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