A little more than a year ago, we invited readers with a talent for writing to consider contributing periodic columns to this page. Five people, to whom we are ever grateful, responded. All five ...

Whether the column was liked or not (most did not), it was read and an “opinion” about it was formed. And, readers cared enough to write a response about the column, which I truly appreciate.

Growing into myself as a writer — and doing it in front of and for all of you — has been one of the great honors of my life.

How would you reassure them? What would you recommend they do? And if you happened to write an actual advice column, wouldn’t you be tempted to publish the exchange?) There were questions ...