By: Carl

Carl — Sun, 19 Mar 2023 18:23:10 +0000

Elizabeth, this is one of the most affecting letters I’ve read. I felt as if I was reading my childhood story as well (although with neglect, not abuse). Thank you for writing it, and I wish us both an emotionally healthy future.

By: K

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 18:38:19 +0000

I’m so sorry for all you went through. I could relate somewhat. My mother passed away when I was 13. She was our primary caregiver and loved us dearly. It was after her passing that I lost my sense of belonging because of the abuse, both physical and emotional that came from my dad, and eventually my older sister. I always felt bad and thought I deserved this, but didn’t recognize it as the abuse it was. My sister was a so full of hate for my dad, but sucked up and tried to catch me doing something wrong for the sake of her being his hero.
I left home as soon as I turned 18 in search of a sense of belonging. It was hard for me to make decisions that seemed to come so easily to others who had good relationships with their parents. I needed a sense of belonging before I could build my life. I worked at McD’s paid rent, drove to high school, and continued this throughout college. It took me decades to realize this was narcissistic abuse. I was always confused because I thought they loved me and I deserved what I got.
This family abuse has ended and I have a great husband and wonderful daughters who understand what happened, as I have been transparent with them.
Thank you for sharing your story.

Comments on: Belonging – A Survivor’s Story

By: Carl

By: K