If you like an author’s essay or book or social media post or anything else they put out into the world, tell them! Even if it’s just a simple “Thank you for this” or “I learned something” or “You made me think,” that feedback matters. One of the things we hear often from our contributors is that they appreciate the way readers receive their essays as much as being published.

We see our authors and readers (and future authors and readers) as part of one larger community. Which isn’t to say you always have to agree with or like our authors; we also welcome constructive criticism. But sometimes people may assume if they don’t have a razor-sharp original comment, it’s not worth commenting. We disagree. A genuine appreciation of an author’s work can make their day. So take this as encouragement to leave a comment today on the next thing you read on Substack, whether it’s at Open Secrets or anywhere else.