My dad was not mean. He was controlling and demanding. He wouldn’t take no for an answer. He was not above enlisting my friends into the family yard work detail. He certainly did not tolerate moping. DAD: [Cough.] Get out there and be in a good mood. ME: But, Dad, it’s a funeral. DAD: [Cough.] I don’t care. Now go stand near the casket. I want to get some pictures.
