In the Ugly Nicotine Debate, Being Kind Isn’t Just Right—It’s Effective

School was a nightmare for an autistic child due to bullying. A conversation with a grandparent led to the realization that words can deeply hurt, impacting communication. The text explores the contentious debate around nicotine, highlighting how insults impede progress. The author reflects on their past behavior as a harsh advocate for tobacco harm reduction and embraces kindness in discussions with opponents. By seeking common ground and showing empathy, they believe advocacy can be more effective. The importance of constructive dialogue over hostility is emphasized, aiming to address the core issue of reducing smoking-related deaths.