Dear mom…..

Growing up with a mother who is emotionally unavailable or narcissistic can leave deep scars that shape your sense of self and how you relate to others. I've experienced moments where I craved comfort and support, only to be met with silence or hurtful words that made me feel weak for showing emotions. These "I need my mom" moments are especially painful because the person you hope will protect and nurture you instead becomes a source of pain. One of the hardest parts of dealing with this kind of trauma is learning to accept that your mother may never provide the love or validation you long for. This acceptance doesn’t mean giving up on healing, but rather shifting the focus to yourself—engaging in therapy, exploring self-help resources, and using creative outlets like writing poetry to process your feelings. Through my own path, I discovered that forgiving the mother I wished I had doesn’t come easily and sometimes may never happen. However, forgiving myself for the pain and recognizing my own worth has been a game changer. It was crucial to stop internalizing negative beliefs about myself that were rooted in a lack of maternal support. I have found strength in building a chosen family, friends, or mentors who provide the emotional nourishment that was missing. If you find yourself struggling with these issues, know that your feelings are valid and you are not alone. Sharing your story with others who understand can be incredibly healing. Remember, self-love and acceptance are ongoing journeys but they are the foundation for reclaiming your life from the shadows of a narcissistic family. You deserve love, support, and peace—starting with how you care for yourself every day.