You just want to use the most barebones text editor that you have, which doesn't get all cute trying to add formatting and what not. The less features the better! The command line editor pico would be great for this, but I don't think Mac OS includes that in the standard install.
I tried downloading and using Mac notepad, but Mitch emailed me back saying it's not working right. I guess my ballot won't count this year! Stupid Mac!