Hi Candy,

Not being heard -inappropriate (trigger) gifts - yes it's all so familiar.

When we don't have a grounded relationship with a parent we hear the inner voice to crying out "You're not listening" - " You keep getting me so wrong!"

I guess that's why we post here, to get some emotional contact. I know how much it hurts when a parent can't give us that.

I'm not fully recovered yet, but I do know that dwelling on unfulfilling relationships is a recipe for continuing depression - because that's what happened to me. When I started thinking about the good relationships in my life, then I was on the mend.

It's good to share, and to get some validation. I think you are quite right to feel that this photograph triggers you and hurts you. It's such a shame that your mother can't understand how you feel and why.

Good thoughts to you, Myzen