Some people will tell you that initiating a breakup is just as painful as being dumped. Those people are liars. Sure, if you have any feelings at all, it won't be easy to break your former beloved's heart. But inflicting that pain is just not as bad as receiving it. For one thing, the dumper knows what's coming; the dumpee is often taken by surprise. And the lingering sting of rejection is much worse than the temporary discomfort of hurting someone's feelings. So, dumpers, please try to be kind. If you really must break up with us (Give us one more chance? We'll change, we promise!), don't say, "This hurts me more than it hurts you." Don't get us drunk first. Don't linger over a dinner that's awkward for reasons unbeknownst to us. Meet us at Spyhouse, or any busy coffee shop, really. Don't go into long explanations. Use the rip-off-the-Band-Aid approach and make it quick. Buy us one last coffee and be on your way. Leave us to the morning hustle and bustle (proof that life goes on), and maybe to the sexy barista.