I really understand where you are coming from. I was abused by my brother growing up, and when I tried to explain to my mom that I don't like being around him because it makes me remember the violence, she turned it into *me* breaking up the family. It made me very sad to realize that no matter what, she wasn't going to choose me

I'm sorry your parents didn't force your brother to get help long ago, so that you never had to be hurt in the first place. It's a pity, because the allowances they are making for him are ultimately hurting everyone, even him. They will be on the receiving end of his abuse, if they aren't already.

I'm so sorry your family doesn't see that you are acting in your own best interest. It is so frustrating, isn't it, that once we get into therapy and become healthier, that our families resist these new patterns so strongly?

I am thinking of you as I plan to see my family this holiday, including my own brother