family
Family can be our support system. Or they can be part of the problem. All about the complicated, loving, and difficult relationship with us and the ones who love us.
How to Stop People Pleasing
One day in my childhood, I decided that I would be the source of everyone's happiness. There was a guilt so perfectly fashioned in my chest. Yet, I'd been oblivious to the fact that it never even belonged to me. For years all I wanted was to be seen, loved, and heard. The majority of my life was fueled by the desire to be loved. This took me down many dark paths that bring me shame to this day. There is grace in my deliverance, however. A moment that I can breathe. Only I always come back to the shame. Always. This same shame gave me the motivation to discover who it truly belonged to. I have been an astronomical part of my downfall. While I am aware of this now, I did not get myself to this point alone. I had the help of so many, only now in adulthood it is my responsibility to mend these broken pieces of my life. No, it isn't fair, but it is necessary.
By The Darkest Sunriseabout a year ago in Psyche
Evelyn. Runner-up in Small Kindness Challenge. Top Story - September 2024.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a federal law that protects the educational rights of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The act was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on July 22, 1987 and serves thousands of needy children each year.
By Cindy Calderabout a year ago in Psyche
Sandals
Dear Mom and Dad, It’s my second year at the seminary, and I’m pleased to tell you that I am positive that the priesthood is definitely for me. I had thought the vow of poverty might be the hardest, but I’ve been purposefully spending down my stipend in acts of charity and almsgiving. I used my last $10 to buy popcorn from some Cub Scouts at church, then I gave it to Sister Rosemary Frances to share with the nuns. It really felt good that I was able to share with them.
By B.B. Potterabout a year ago in Psyche
When There’s No Light at the End of the Tunnel
Growing up, we’re taught to believe that every difficult journey will eventually lead to a happy ending. That no matter how long and dark the tunnel may seem, there will always be a light shining at the end, waiting to guide us out. And maybe that’s true for some people. But for those of us who have endured the pain of a toxic, narcissistic mother, the reality is much different.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
Kindness or Cruelty?
Greg seduced me with his bright, green eyes and the smile that took over his entire face. My emotions were flying high that night. When we met I had just returned to work after a months long pregnancy hiatus. I missed the stage. I missed being a part of the show and all the excitement that came with the night life that had stolen my heart.
By Tina D'Angeloabout a year ago in Psyche
Late
The soup got cold. Guess who has to heat it up again? Of course I get to do all the work as usual. And of course no one respects my effort. Least of all that ungrateful daughter, late for dinner although the school ended four hours ago. I keep her timetable on my bedside table so I know when she’s supposed to be home. She won’t fool me. It’s only a ten minutes’ walk and she knows the dinner is ready at half four. But what does she care? Yesterday, she even had the cheek to tell me she didn’t want dinner. That she ate at school. So what? Does she think I make an effort to cook so that it can go to the bin? Two courses every day! So disrespectful of her.
By Katarzyna Popielabout a year ago in Psyche
When He Died
When he died, I lay down next to him, knowing my life would change forever but not knowing how drastically. There wasn’t a lot of room to move around in the house—stacks of magazines and newspapers were everywhere, as well as small, thin paths through the junk that led between the cluttered rooms. Dirty dishes weren’t just piled on the sink and counter, but stretched across the table, floors, on top of the stacks—my nose had stopped working effectively years before. To have a sense of smell in a place like this was a problem, not a benefit.
By Alison McBainabout a year ago in Psyche
Covert Narcissists and Legal System Exploitation:
When it comes to narcissists, their need for control knows no bounds. Most people associate narcissistic behavior with personal relationships—romantic partners, friends, or family members—but covert narcissists often take their manipulation to a whole new level: the legal system. And if there’s one thing a covert narcissist loves more than playing the victim, it’s exploiting the rules in their favor.
By Sunshine Firecrackerabout a year ago in Psyche
