Hi again.

I got out by running away far enough. In my case, as a child, I fled to another province where the police didn't have a file on me ( I live in Canada ). I guess what I really mean to say in a more adult way, is that I cut off my family. I won't lie to you, it was a combination of luck and strength that got me to where I am today.

I won't tell you that you should cut your abusive family loose, but I suggest you ask yourself: what do you get out of your relationships with them? The need for family is really powerful and we will do almost anything to satisfy that need. But are your relationships meeting that need?

When I cut them off, eventually, I realized, as much as I want a mom and dad who care about me, and as much as I grieve not having that, I never had a mom and dad who cared about me, and engaging in a relationship with them does not change that.

I can give you more details about my struggle to get away, but I was hesitant to turn my response in to something that could be more triggering for you. If you want more details, just ask.