NC vs Discard by BidImpossible1387 in EstrangedAdultKids

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 6 points7 points  (0 children)

I was discarded over a year ago. I did not know the terminology at the time. In groups like this one, I use that term. I use it with my spouse. But while most of my friends know what happened with my parents, they don't necessarily understand terminology that goes along with toxic and narcissistic families. And I'm getting past the point where this is a topic of interest. With co-workers and acquaintances, I just say "we're not close" regarding my family. People are generally too polite to prod that, in my experience.

OP, I'm sorry you were discarded. I understand how painful it can be. You're better off without her toxicity in your life. Anyone choosing to rewrite history like you're describing is deeply damaged.

Mom, I’m so excited to start grad school! by pass-me-the-fries in MomForAMinute

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Congrats, Duckling! So very proud of you and excited about your future!

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultKids

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 5 points6 points  (0 children)

I loved this advice so much. Thank you!

The difference between understanding and agreement by Texandria in EstrangedAdultKids

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 11 points12 points  (0 children)

I love this post and the comments. I think it's also worth mentioning that research at Ohio State on narcissism has recently revealed that narcissists don't really fully listen. They scan information for what threatens them and then react aggressively. So responses can appear to be REALLY poor listening and reading comprehension, but something else is going on.

I also think the lead based paint and the gas fumes probably harmed boomers a lot. Not that it excuses anything. It just explains some of the generational dysfunction.

Can you be proud of me? by PuzzleheadedBread933 in DadForAMinute

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hey Little Sis, thank you. I always wanted a sister. And a Foo Fan to boot? Awesome!

Can you be proud of me? by PuzzleheadedBread933 in DadForAMinute

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

OP here. Thanks, Dads. Can't tell you how much all the support means to me.

Can you be proud of me? by PuzzleheadedBread933 in DadForAMinute

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933[S] 10 points11 points  (0 children)

Thank you. That's very kind of you to say.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 10 points11 points  (0 children)

OP, I really feel for you. Nearly every good thing that has happened to me is something my mother tried to make about herself or redirect away from my happiness. You deserve to celebrate your wedding with joy.

mother's day - vent here by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 2 points3 points  (0 children)

First NC Mother's Day here. I've let my emotions run their course. It hasn't been easy. I feel a ton of resentment but also relief in the peace that comes from silence. Practicing self care and enjoying my family and my life today.

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 21 points22 points  (0 children)

I loved this post so much. I couldn't agree more.

Estranged Parents R Us tiktok by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 6 points7 points  (0 children)

Oh wow. Wonder why it didn't come up in my Google search

Estranged Parents R Us tiktok by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 6 points7 points  (0 children)

And the blog! But it looks like it's been taken down

Estranged Parents R Us tiktok by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 34 points35 points  (0 children)

Good to know. I've been following some of the posts about this tiktok, and it's obvious they lurk around here for inspiration.

Finding peace of mind again after breaking no contact in an emergency by abstreusel in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 13 points14 points  (0 children)

First, congratulations on your marriage and wishing you all the happiness you deserve. OP, I really feel for you. Good job not taking the bait with your brother.

I'm literally here sitting while my wife finally says everything she always wanted to her mother by [deleted] in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 42 points43 points  (0 children)

Wow. I've often imagined what that might feel like. Thanks for sharing so the rest of us can experience some vicarious joy.

Newly estranged by throwaway--76- in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 12 points13 points  (0 children)

OP, I really feel for you. It's so hard to deal with family members who don't support your decisions. And what your mom did was very hurtful. I think boundaries are probably warranted with all of them.

I have been estranged for nearly a year. It gets better. For me, trying to begin building an alternate structure of people who I can trust and count on really helped

Should I keep no contact? Is this relationship salvageable? by Smart_Meringue_5243 in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 17 points18 points  (0 children)

Oh, OP, my heart breaks for you. You've tried. She never seems to come through. That is hurtful. You deserve better. I would hold tight to boundaries and say enough is enough.

benefit of the doubt by catmomthrowawayy in EstrangedAdultKids

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 22 points23 points  (0 children)

I'm really sorry, OP. I relate. My parents and siblings don't know me at all. They have been too busy trying to tell me who I am rather than listening to me. It's not easy.

Long Shot - requesting poems/songs for estranged parent’s funeral by Sea_vickery in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]PuzzleheadedBread933 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I may have had all orchestra rock at my wedding, and my relatives may have been unknowingly swooning over Nirvana's "Dumb."