It was a hard life that my siblings and I went through. We had some of the darkest days as kids but we were taught by our Maw to never give up, to keep going, and to always look for the positive in anyone or any situation.

Relationships are not easy I know by example. It’s like no matter what you do the opposite sex is never happy. Never satisfied u can lay your life down on the line and it still wouldn’t be enough.

Finding true love doesn't mean head diving into a relationship and hurting yourself to be with them.

Family trauma can be a silent burden, often hidden behind closed doors and masked by everyday smiles. It's the weight of unspoken words, unresolved conflicts, and generational pain that seeps into our lives in subtle yet profound ways. This trauma can shape our relationships, self-perception, and even our parenting styles, often without us realizing it.

How I survived a covert narcissistic relationship and how I moved on. They can cause trauma and abuse. If you need help there are hotlines I've included for help.

Covert Narcissist are very dangerous. They can cause trauma and abuse. Here are some signs that I noticed when it was too late.

Be careful of where you talk about this person their will be large groups of flies for no discernable reason.

TWO questions and answers today because they were so short: DEAR ASK A PUNK - My girlfriend and I are breaking up. Who gets the dog? She brought it home originally, but he's pretty much mine. I walk and feed and take him to the vet when I'm home. I think she only wants him because she know's it is pissing me off. …Michael & DEAR ASK A PUNK - I'm an LA chick who enjoyed heavy metal but mostly country music in high school. How can I relate to punks? If I happen to be next to one randomly somewhere, what is a good conversation starter? I pride myself on being able to relate to lots of different people but am a bit stumped on this one. Your advice would be helpful. ...Karen (Answers inside)

Another previously written entry (I am trying to clear out older ones before they lose meaning in the context of my current situation) focusing on the selfish feelings I have while trying to be supportive.

This one is for the people who give and give—thinking maybe one day it’ll be enough. Until they realize it never was about being enough.

Music was how we used to love each other.
Now it’s how I know he’s gone—even when he swears he’s still here.

I never thought I’d become a stranger in my own relationship.
But this is the truth I’ve kept quiet—until now.

Oh, how loving me can be so hard. No matter what you do I'll fall apart. Like a wilted flower, I sit there rotting away. So hold me gently, until I fade away.

Love or fondness? Can a person be with someone when there is no love? Do people settle even when there is no passion ?

Life in your mid 40’s, still have so much to figure out! I’m ok with that but it’s a little scary too. I can’t help but focus on my kids, one is an adult and one is a teen

Since I was young I wanted to be a kindergarten teacher or write children’s books. In elementary school there was a yearly contest to write and illustrate a book, I worked so hard but always got beat out by the “smart” student! It was so frustrating. It didn’t deter me, I kept trying but to no avail unfortunately. Even then I knew it mattered who you were and how your parent were etc….I was a nobody in that regard. I spent my free time writing stories and pictures to go alone with them. It was my own world to deal with a not so great home life, it was my escape and I created all on my own. Loved reading, being artistic and getting lost in it all. I often wonder what I could be had I had more support and encouragement….I didn’t have that at all. Felt ignored and left to my own devices and I needed guidance for sure. Does anyone relate?

Another journal entry written well-before it is being posted, but today it feels poignant and relatable again as old emotions bubble to the surface…

You know I never thought that I would feel safe enough to be me again.. but as I’m going on this journey I’m noticing more and more things that’s really great now you would think that since I’ve had an experience with a healthy relationship that I would be used to it but honestly I’m not and I wasn’t even mentally stable when I was innit which sucks for said person

Sometimes, our children have alot of wisdom we fail to see. My daughter is a reflection of me. She reminds me just how perfect my life really is. Here's to all the mom's and dad's who have all been given such perfect gifts.

I am an advocate and non profit owner I help battered women and children escape safely. Doing this has actually become dangerous, and law enforcement refuses to help, treating me like it's my fault. Pls read my story and help me make changes about cyberstalking and hacking laws. Stop blaming the victim and help us instead before more victims are murdered because cops don't care.