Your mother had it right: “If you can’t find anything nice to say, then don’t say anything.” Sure, if someone is about drive off a cliff, shout out! But most of the time, avoid the acute angle.
Let others save face; practice giving encouragement rather than argument. Save the debating skills for another day. Riding roughshod over the opinions, feelings, thoughts, and emotions of others is the occupation of fools.
Practice CPA2: Celebrate, Praise, Acknowledge, and Appreciate. You will be pleasantly surprised by the joy and happiness you will be able to create and share.
Closing quotes:
“You catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.”
“A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still.”
“Silence is one of the hardest arguments to refute.” — Josh Billings; 1818-1885
“I can win an argument on any topic, against any opponent. People know this, and steer clear of me at parties. Often, as a sign of their great respect, they don’t even invite me.” — Dave Barry; 1947-