The author describes the emotional journey of cutting ties with their abusive mother after enduring years of physical and emotional trauma. They reveal that while they initially expected feelings of guilt and grief, the act of severing ties ultimately led to unexpected feelings of joy and liberation. The author also addresses cultural taboos surrounding estrangement and the tendency for others to express concern for the abuser rather than understanding the necessity of self-preservation. The ongoing challenge of societal judgment regarding estrangement is highlighted, emphasizing the belief that no form of abuse can be justified.
Cultural taboos against estrangement make even the most well-intentioned souls withhold support from those who need and deserve it most.
I expected to feel guilt and grief after my decision, and I did. I didn't expect to feel joy, but I did.
The most common response is concern for family members who were cut off, instead of support for those of us who step away.
No abuser's ignorance or condition excuses her behavior any more than her treatment of us gives us license to abuse other people.
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