When I was about nine, I found out that, as difficult as it seems, the truth can set you free. I was playing with a crystal dinner bell I was not allowed to touch, and then I broke it. My dad was furious - it was his sainted mother's most precious possession. I was inches away from a spanking. He had his belt in hand, but Mom interceded and said, "Davey boy, now that you know that was wrong to do, tell us you won't do anything like that again." I...