I finally worked up the nerve to ask Auntie Abi why she always said, “In God we trust,” every time she finished a can of Coca-Cola.

“I’m putting my faith in God,” she replied with a smirk, as if that explained everything. I waited, knowing there had to be more.

Then, she picked up the can, squinted at the nutrition facts, and went on, “I trust that this mix of carbonated water, high-fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, caffeine, sodium, natural flavors—plus who knows what other sugars—and no fiber, vitamins, or proteins whatsoever… is somehow good for me.”

She looked at me with a satisfied grin, as if that was the most logical thing in the world, and then asked, “Want some dessert?”

I laughed. “Of course, Auntie Abi. But maybe keep the Coke.”