That is a great analogy, but I think it does the situation a disservice by making it seem trivial, common, everyday-type stuff. That isn't the case.
When someone takes it upon themselves to unilaterally publish documents that are considered sensitive and perhaps even critical to our nation's interests, then it isn't a question of did Aunt Betty's feelings get hurt or is Uncle Benny going to be embarrassed. The pertinent questions are:
Q1) Has the public benefitted in any meaningful way from the unauthorized release? (A: Not so far)
Q2) Is the Nation better off as a whole because the information was released? (A: Most experts say "No" - because we didn't really learn anything of significance on the macro-scale that we didn't already know, and there has been no discovery of gross negligence, malfeasance or criminal acts. So, what was the point of releasing the documents?)
3) Will the information make us safer or protect us from danger in any way? (A: Too early to tell, but it's doubtful at this point on a macro scale. On a micro scale, the potential for damage and risk is great - and on an individual level, it may be tragic.)
4) What is the potential harm to our national interests? How much will it cost to repair the damage in terms of dollars as well as time -- and perhaps even lives? (A: Despite Washington's attempts to downplay the significance of it, it's pretty clear that the Wikileaks stunt has derailed several important diplomatic discussions - at least temporarily. There is going to be fallout, especially in and between Middle Eastern nations, that will set back many efforts to deal with significant issues (like ho-hum, dealing with Iran's nuclear capactity). And the leaks will definitely have a chilling effect on gaining the trust of potential sources that are critical to gaining meaningful and actionable intelligence.
In short, we're WORSE OFF because of the leaks, and some individuals who have taken risks for America may now pay dearly for it. I for one - liberal as I am - hope the bastards who leaked the cables and documents pay for it in a way that will discourage others who want to follow in their footsteps.

[This message has been edited by Steve Craddock (12/4/2010)]