This is a really good article Matthew! I remember the day: a counselor said her mother was like mine. She said she didn't like her mother. That thought struck me so hard. I thought it was "a crime" to not like your mother. It took a long time to grasp this, but it was the first step to being free from toxicity and abuse. My family members act like mafia in their intensity of control and manipulation is trying to "get me back in line". I appreciate that you are sharing your personal experience and wisdom. It is priceless know we are not alone, because it is a long and difficult journey. May I share three resources with you? Dr Ramani. I watch her youtube videos about narcissistic abuse. Shahida Arabi's book: Becoming The Narcissist's Nightmare (plus her other books); Shannon Thomas: Healing From Hidden Abuse.