I had to come and read this after seeing the post spotlighted in S&S. Poignant story, Tess. It's always a pleasure to read you. You paint a picture of such a heartless aunt - the irony... depriving her niece of time with God and her family when she is ready to bounce to church herself on Christmas day. She seems rather narcissistic. And poor Mercy - stifling subservience. The light is flickering brighter inside her and more boldly. I don't think she will take the nonsense for much longer... biding her time! !LUV !ALIVE !PIZZA