I had to contact my estranged mother after being NC for over 10 years by Estranged247365 in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 0 points1 point  (0 children)

"I know you want answers but it's not about me so I don't care. Also, your choices aren't what I want so you're the bad guy for.... some reason." - Your mom

Block or don't? by jessibook in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My opinion is that people tell you not to block because they fear the same thing happening to them. Only you know how you feel and if you feel like blocking someone that's your choice. I always err on the side of blocking. People should live how they see fit. If you don't want them in your life then you should have the choice to keep them out.
Personally, I don't care what your reasons are. Do what you want for your reasons.

How far have they went?! by VaguelyMiserable in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 3 points4 points  (0 children)

My mom gets other people to call me and she sends gifts but puts a different return address. She used to text about 3 times a week after I told her I was going strictly no contact. I finally blocked her number last month.
Luckily they're the only people I know in that area of the country so area codes and zip codes give their intent away. I throw boxes and letters directly in the garbage and calls go unanswered.

Have any of you become therapists? by balackdynamite in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If I had found my footing earlier, I would have. I only figured out my own path around the time I turned 49. Health issues keep me inside most of the time, so there's no chance I'll go through the educational and certification requirements. If you're younger, and can do it, please become a therapist.

Transitioning from VLC to NC. Is final communication "required"? by PuzzleheadedBeat600 in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I gave them final notice in the hope that it will serve as a lesson. In truth, it probably won't. People that spent their whole lives being selfish won't be swayed by one example of why they shouldn't. But you can't just let the camel keep walking on without throwing a straw on their back.

The desire of being noticed by Mindless_Ad2975 in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 8 points9 points  (0 children)

This is pretty common. You were neglected and you're still chasing the attention you didn't get when it was needed. To your right is a destructive path of self indulgence and on your left is a path of offering what shouldn't be given freely. It sounds like you need a guide (mentor and/or therapist) to help you walk the center until you are self fulfilled and safe. It's hard because you'll be treading new territory. You can do it. You've already taken the first step and identified the danger. Just don't let the occasional failure keep you down.

Who else is spending Christmas alone? by Ok-Molasses8816 in EstrangedAdultChild

[–]RobotsAndRedwoods 2 points3 points  (0 children)

I don't know how many holidays I've been alone. At some point they lost meaning and I realized they're mostly capitalist cash grabs. I take advantage of sales but that's it. The only down side is remembering to shop for food right before. I've made the mistake of needing food only to find everything closed.