I agree with you about dating. I just feel disconnected from everyone, even in my friendships. Long story short, my dad cheated on my mom with the woman that is now my stepmom. So I grew up hearing "don't trust men," etc. I'm doing better in this area, but there's a lot of work to be done here.

My question is if there is a way to express these feelings without a huge fight breaking out? Even though they have hurt me, I still want to stand up for myself respectfully, if that makes any sense. I just want to be the bigger person I guess.

Thank you everyone for your replies! Reading your responses makes me feel less alone and truly validates my feelings.