Dear Ann Landers,
I have read your column for more than 40 years. Ten years ago, you first mentioned Reconciliation Day. You said April 2 should be set aside as the day when everyone would vow to write a letter or make a phone call and mend a strained or broken relationship. It could also be the day we would all agree to accept the olive branch extended by a former friend or family member. I fought with my father for years. I read all the columns you printed begging people to reconcile with their parents. You said, after they die, it will be too late. Two years ago, I finally decided to work things out with my dad, not only because it seemed the right thing to do but because you told me to do it. He died last Christmas, and I can only imagine the hell I would be going through if I had not reconciled with him. In those two years, we became the best of friends. I miss him very much. Please print this letter on Reconciliation Day, Ann. Tell your readers not to put off mending those fences because one day they will regret it. -- Ed in R.I.

Dear Ed,
Thank you for a frank and thoughtful letter. I hope all my readers will be aware that today -- Reconciliation Day -- is a perfect time to heal old wounds and reach out to those with whom you may have lost touch. Please pick up the phone or write a letter. It is sure to bring a great deal of joy to someone who might be in pain because of past grievances. Life is too short to hold grudges. To be able to forgive can be enormously healing and life-enhancing. It is the best example of casting your bread upon the waters and getting back caviar sandwiches. Do it today. Tomorrow may be too late.