In December 2025, I wrote a piece for Together Estranged entitled “Estrangement and ‘Getting Over It’.” In that article, I wrote about a friend, who had mid-conflict, told me to stop using my estrangement as an excuse for my poor behavior; especially, since my estrangement had been ongoing for so many years. In other words, “Why aren’t you over this by now? You should be!” was the subtext.

I have been estranged from my family for almost a decade. During that time, many life-altering decisions have been made that have shaped the person I presently am, and the life I have chosen to lead. One of the biggest events that has happened during my period of estrangement is that I now have children.

“I miss my mom.” I’ve noticed that this sentence makes an appearance in my thoughts more than I care to admit. Sometimes it’s not surprising, like when I’m having a difficult day and my nerves and patience are worn thin. I start craving that support, understanding, validation, and love that only a mother can provide.

A reflection of the impact of the development of self-esteem within the dysfunctional family dynamic.