Hey, it's Kelly, and at the end of every week, I like to share something true and useful,

something I stumbled over that gave me a burst of optimism, something you can share with

friends like an audio greeting card, something to help us all keep our eyes on what's working

and what could be.

So, I'll be right back with this week's For The Good of the Order.

This is Kelly Corgan Wonders.

Today's go-to is an honor of Mother's Day, and by request, I am reading a story from

the middle place called The Guest Jean's Fight of 1984.

Even when he said no, my dad was an easy flip.

All it took was a lot of smiles, a head tilt, and a minor concession of some sort, like

taking out a bag of trash.

But consequently, I learned to wait until he got home from work to discuss the $10 I needed

for a new Papagallo bag, or the upcoming Unchaperoned Pool Party at Anno Harris.

But after one too many, sure, why not, lovey?

My dad learned to stick to the script.

It's up to your mother.

Unlike my dad, when my mom took a stand, which she often did, I don't remember her ever

backing down.

Her fortitude looks like love to me now, but at the time I was sure my mom was trying

to ruin my life.

My mom was formidable on points of fashion, hair, and makeup, but she really dug in her

heels when it came to cars.

...