I read it the same way, with the sentiment of "People will be more upset if you delay telling them bad news." e.g. "We got a letter for past-due rent yesterda

I read it the same way, with the sentiment of "People will be more upset if you delay telling them bad news." e.g. "We got a letter for past-due rent yesterday, and I'm telling you now" vs. "We've been getting letters for past-due rent the last few months, and I'm telling you now."