Overall, would you say you grew up in a loving household?

@Coralmist That must have been horrible, and it is no surprise that the repercussions have lasted into the present. I am so sorry you had to endure that.

@DrWatson Appreciate your words 🌸 Some days I don't believe I have regular human rights like getting angry, sad etc. Or a right to real joy. She'd squashed my self, and some days seem to enjoy it. I'm starting therapy again soon. Ty again. How about you , did you have a loving environment?

@Coralmist Yes, I did. Both of my parents expressed love , told me they were proud of me, and took an interest in me.

@Coralmist Your mum sounds [u]exactly[/u] as mine used to be. I have no idea, to this day, what it feels like to be welcome or accepted. 🤷‍♀️ Fortunately, I also no longer care about it.

@SW-User I'm sorry. It really sucks when the main form of love you're going to feel ABOUT YOURSELF comes from, your parents. It's the major factor how we view ourselves growing up and into adulthood. She'd say, Others aren't going to tell you something negative or the truth, so I do. 😮 I want to say now, YES they are, what you needed to do was show kindness and love, what most are NOT going to do out there. 🙁 I don't date because of feeling so broken, I'm jobless currently and I barely make it though a day Sometimes. I'm sorry you've felt it too friend 💗

@Coralmist I am so sorry, Coral. I hope you find that acceptance and warmth you still seek. Despite the challenges you have lived, you have a good heart and a lot to share. I hope you can see the good in you, not only the pain.

@FrozenWasteland Aww thank you truly. 🐦🐞

@Coralmist I'm in a similar situation with the joblessness and dating. Although in my case, I'm retired on a small pension and accepting discounts from the state based on age and income. I'm not what anyone would consider eligible dating material, but that's ok. I doubt I could share house space with anyone after the kind of marriage I had.

@Coralmist, it sounds like we had similar experiences. I too wonder what it would have been like to be raised by two strong and loving parents. I am pretty certain my life would have been a lot different.

I really admire people that are good parents.

@Coralmist I know that feeling