Dear yoj712,
I can't say that I know exactly what you're going through at the moment but there have been periods of time, some as long as five years, where I haven't spoken to my mother and father. Most of these issues were caused by my father's substance abuse problems and because of the physical and emotional abuse that both, my mother and father subjected me to. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers today and I hope and pray that you will be able to resolve your issues and differences. Unfortunately, if this is also due to a substance abuse problem on behalf of your parents, he/she really needs to get help. No matter what the issues are, I pray that you and your family are able to get past them. I'm happy to say that my father got clean before his death and we had some wonderful times together but now, they seem bittersweet. Sometimes, you just have to forgive the person who hurt you and to reach out to them first. Just pick up the phone and give them a call. . .it's only the first few minutes that are difficult. If you do, at least, you can say that you gave it your best effort, you know? I've found that forgiveness doesn't only help the person who trespassed again you but it also helps the person who gives it wholeheartedly! It's so liberating and freeing! Forgiving my father reduced him to tears. . .but it released sooo much emotional pain and suffering on my behalf too! Prayers for you and your fam and I'd like to wish you and very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year too! Prayers are on their way! ((Hugs))
