Mike, that neglect is truly something to grieve. I had all those physical providings as a child too. In fact, my mom often attempts to justify things by reminding how we were clothed and fed. But, that was not enough. The lack of connection is a big loss for a child - the support, the affirmation, the supervision, the training and mentoring. I'm sad you had to go through that.

Yes Andy, I think you're right. This is something I need to grieve. Today I have felt much the same way I felt when I first came out of denial over two years ago. I'm in shock. I have had spontenious bouts of crying and I'm in a haze. I wasn't ready for this. I thought those days were over. I need to take care of myself.

Mike