Replying to @parus, you are you, and perfectly imperfect but greatly loved, exactly as you are! It amazes me how people do not value the importance of simply being yourself.

I cannot pattern myself after anyone else. I have family that I have chosen to let go, because they dumped me into the throwaway box many years ago.

All I can think is that most of them care only for themselves. The Times we shared are erased from their minda, just as I have been erased from their Christmas list.

There are homes I have never been in. Family members who show up now and again at funerals, speak to me as if we lived just around the corner. I don't buy that anymore. I have cried and been heartbroken too many times

The only crime I have commited is being on the Spectrum. I don't fit into their society. So I make friends with the dreamers and the doers, the poets and the writers. The musicians and the counselors, the pastors and the teachers. And every one in between.

I read, paint, listen to music, and practice self care. I read everything I can on Narcissists. I have a good life, even though arthritis rears its ugly head in retaliation to my Fibromyalgia being calmed

You are so right. We cannot change other people. Especially people who don't even know they need to be changed I welcome change.

Love and virtual hugs to you,

Mamacita Jane