The absolute value of any number less than zero is the opposite of that number. Hence the absolute value of -5 is the opposite of -5, namely 5. The absolute value of 8 is 8. The opposite of the absolute value of anything is just like taking the opposite of anything else -- with the exception that you know the application of the absolute value function ensures that the result is positive, hence the opposite must be negative.
So, knowing all of that you can remove the absolute value signs:
John
My calculator said it, I believe it, that settles it