A powerful peek into a painful world; I’m sorry you experienced that. You are a strong writer, and your words can help others find their way, as well. Thank you for sharing.
Good for you for figuring this out at such as young age! As an almost-70-year-old child of a narcissistic mother, what finally freed me was her death when I was 63. I have a better relationship with her now, and can appreciate her creative parts as well as her crazed parts. She and I get along better when we're in separate dimensions.
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s so important to keep talking about CPTSD so others can see their own experiences in the stories of others. Your essay is so important.
Wow, Ena. Such an emotional piece of writing. You've articulated so well what it means to be raised by a narcissist. I'm sorry for all you've been through. Your vulnerability in sharing your story is so inspiring. Best of luck on your continued journey of healing. Your attitude is courageous. 🤍
How wise and at just 30! It took me till my to allow myself to feel my pain and begin let go if the thorns. You will both benefit. And you are in charge if you remember it.
You are very courageous. I'm 41 and I dare not contact her again. I cut her off two years ago. She was very to the version of your mother you describe. Now, she's a bipolar and borderline monster. I studied therapy and work in memoir just to try to get over it and help others, too.
I hear you. Lending yourself the time and space to bring words and attention to your experiences is all each of us can do. I wish you nothing but the best!
So beautifully written. Love this especially - "While all those things may be true, when I gave you opportunities time and time again to do better, you chose not to take them. I see now that no matter how much I undress my hurt, it will never be enough. It will only be an opportunity for the wound to be salted again."
This is gold.
Thank you, Sara!
A powerful peek into a painful world; I’m sorry you experienced that. You are a strong writer, and your words can help others find their way, as well. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this piece, Kathy.
So many parts of this I could copy&share. Been there, got the t-shirt. Go you for being brave &sharing ❤️
Thank you Diane. It's good to know that no survivor is alone!
Also want to thank you for how much remembering parts of your post helped me through an issue with my mum this weekend. X
We’re so glad to hear that, Diane. We hope our essays, while deeply personal and specific to the author, also resonate beyond their individual story.
Good for you for figuring this out at such as young age! As an almost-70-year-old child of a narcissistic mother, what finally freed me was her death when I was 63. I have a better relationship with her now, and can appreciate her creative parts as well as her crazed parts. She and I get along better when we're in separate dimensions.
Uff, that last line!
Thank you. Continued strength, growth, and healing as you re-engage.
you're so brave for sharing this
Thank you for sharing your story. It’s so important to keep talking about CPTSD so others can see their own experiences in the stories of others. Your essay is so important.
Thank you so much for your encouragement, Jazmine.
Wow, Ena. Such an emotional piece of writing. You've articulated so well what it means to be raised by a narcissist. I'm sorry for all you've been through. Your vulnerability in sharing your story is so inspiring. Best of luck on your continued journey of healing. Your attitude is courageous. 🤍
Thank you so much, Marcia!
How wise and at just 30! It took me till my to allow myself to feel my pain and begin let go if the thorns. You will both benefit. And you are in charge if you remember it.
Thank you Dorian, I so appreciate it!
You are very courageous. I'm 41 and I dare not contact her again. I cut her off two years ago. She was very to the version of your mother you describe. Now, she's a bipolar and borderline monster. I studied therapy and work in memoir just to try to get over it and help others, too.
I hear you. Lending yourself the time and space to bring words and attention to your experiences is all each of us can do. I wish you nothing but the best!
So beautifully written. Love this especially - "While all those things may be true, when I gave you opportunities time and time again to do better, you chose not to take them. I see now that no matter how much I undress my hurt, it will never be enough. It will only be an opportunity for the wound to be salted again."
Thank you for sharing!
I relate to so much of this as a child of a narcissist. Thank you for writing this, ena! I feel seen.
Believe it or not, you are quite young to have come to the level of healing and awareness that you have. You have a very bright future ahead.
Thank you so much for your encouraging words, Leslie!
Your writing is raw, brave and heartfelt Ena. Thank you for sharing your story. So artfully written.
Powerful piece. I’ve been following your work on Instagram for awhile but I’m happy to see you here.
Thank you for your support and for taking the time to read my piece, Yamuna!
I relate to so much of this.brava to you!