This comment stream reminded me of a blog post by the phenomenal Erin Schreyer.
http://sagestone.wordpress.com/2011/12/05/its-up-to-us-to-teach-our-kids-to-lead/

At the end she shares a fabulous acronym:  Before you speak, THINK.

Is it True?
Is it Helpful?
Is it Inspiring?
Is it Necessary?
Is it Kind?

This has helped me so much in talking to others nd helping us all talk to each other.

Thank you for an insiring post.