I've heard the analogy that some abuse is like the constant dripping of a leaky faucet. React to it at all, get irritated even a little bit, and they quickly accuse of you of being oversensitive. You're making way too big a deal over one little drop of water. Of course, they're conveniently ignoring the fact that it's only one among thousands and thousands. And I don't know about you, but few things annoy me more than a leaky faucet, literally or figuratively.

Here is an example. A Facebook memory came up for a post I made in 2009. I had noted what a difference ten years makes. In 2000, I was living in my old hometown, was married to a man who is now deceased, was on disability and living in public housing, etc. Now I'm relocated and remarried, not on disability anymore, and living in a house my husband and I own.

My Golden Child brother--the one who always picks apart every slightest little statement that comes out of my mouth--his only comment was, "Actually, the decade still continues until the next New Year." Followed by a condescending winking smiley.

I'm always so stupid to him. I blocked him long ago, but I'm glad for these Facebook memories to pop up now and then reminding me why.

What are some other ways families can abuse by constant little drips?