One of the many lessons I hope I've learned is how much I underestimated people, their open-mindedness and their willingness to understand. I think, moreover, I underestimated the degree to which everyone has a story. So my advice, for whatever it's worth, is to trust readers, trust the truth and trust the power of storytelling.

Mom also hinted a couple of times that it was good I was going to college, since with one failed marriage behind me, I 'd have trouble landing a good husband and would need something to fall back on. "A package that's been opened once doesn't have the same appeal".

I never had any question that my parents loved me. I had a real sense of self confidence.

She was developing what Mom called a bit of a sarcastic streak.

You didn't need a college degree to become one of the people who knew what was really going on. If you paid attention, you could pick things up on your own.

Nobody's perfect. We're all just one step up from the beasts and one step down from the angels.

Fussing over children who cry only encourages them. That's positive reinforcement for negative behavior.