Reclaimed Baggage

Barbara is a widow, a recent retiree, and a liar. She tells lies like she drinks hot coffee—easily and often. Yes, this macaroni salad is homemade. Yes, I love your new dress. Yes, my children have the same father. The way Barbara sees it, lying can help smooth out life's bumpiest roads. She would know; she's been walking them as long as she can remember.

Now, her three kids are independent and grown, and Barbara's helpful lies are catching up with her. She blames everything but herself: bad...