I was never the type to rebel. I had been silenced so much growing up that confrontation terrified me, especially when it came to authority. I had learned to equate authority with my mother—with her sharp words and unpredictable reactions. I had a tendency to avoid conflict at all costs,…

Sometimes, I feel sad for no reason at all.Like a quiet rain inside my chest,dripping, dripping, never stopping.Mama says, You’re too sensitive,but I don’t know how to be anything else. I see it in their eyes—the women in old photographs,their faces frozen in time,their smiles stretched thin like thread.Great-Grandma, Grandma,…

I could probably fill a book with the experiences I’ve had with offense and its consequences, but the offense that impacted me most was the one I held against my mother and father. I often bore the weight of my mother’s unresolved anger toward my father. Looking back, I can…

Growing up with emotionally distant parents can leave a lasting impact. When the people who are supposed to provide love, warmth, and guidance feel unavailable—whether due to their own struggles, trauma, or emotional limitations—it can create a sense of loneliness and self-doubt. Many children in this situation grow into adults…

For much of my life, I’ve carried a complex mix of emotions shaped by growing up with an emotionally distant mother and an absentee father. The imprint of that upbringing still lingers, but over time, I’ve learned to understand my emotions, honor them, and slowly move toward healing. Today, I…

Embarking on a path of self-discovery and personal growth is a profound and deeply personal experience—one that requires peeling back the layers we have accumulated over time and rediscovering the essence of who we truly are. It is a journey of introspection, healing, and courage—courage to face the shadows, to…

Growing Up in Silence Childhood is often painted as a time of laughter, warmth, and unconditional love. But for some, it’s a quieter place — a landscape of longing and unanswered questions. Imagine growing up with a single mother who is physically present but emotionally distant, while a father’s absence…