Never in my wildest dreams did I anticipate that a single afternoon might alter the paths that my life would take, or at the very least, change the way that a room full of people would perceive me. My name is Vivian, and I have spent the better part of three decades attempting to maintain harmony among my family, even if it meant sacrificing my own dignity. Despite the fact that it was not always simple, I took great satisfaction in my ability to be patient, understanding, and forgiving. On the other hand, I learned that tolerance has its limitations on the day that my only son, Derek, publicly h.u.m.iliated me at his wedding.