DEAR ABBY: I am writing this letter to make amends to a former co-worker. This incident happened years ago. I have no idea where this lady is, or I would say it directly, but I am hoping she will see it in your column.
"Dear Former Co-Worker: Many years ago, your husband sexually molested your daughter. It was in the paper and on the news. You came to work every day looking distraught, and I did and said nothing. I didn't know what to say and didn't want to add to your pain, so I didn't speak up. I have always regretted it. I felt your sorrow and respected your courage. I want you to know that I cared about you and what you and your daughter were going through. I'm sorry I didn't have the courage to say a kind or sympathetic word.
"I still think of you and wish I hadn't held back. I know what a hard time this was for you on many levels. I sincerely apologize and hope you and your daughter are OK. I also hope you can forgive me for being a coward." -- YOUR FORMER CO-WORKER, LESLIE
DEAR LESLIE: I, too, hope your former co-worker sees your letter. However, whether she does or not, it sets an example for others who see someone in distress and don't know how to reach out. When someone is in pain, knowing that someone cares can be of great comfort.