Hi there! I hope you're having a great day!
After reading your words with great care, I feel that your situation is somewhat similar to my own. The difference is that I am the mother, who is sometimes a bit unreasonable, and my father is usually very patient. I also have a partner from a happy family of origin, so I deeply empathize with what you said.
You said you were unhappy in your own family, that you didn't enjoy the love of your parents when you were growing up, and that you didn't get along well with your family and relatives. I can see that you feel inferior about your own family (especially when you meet boyfriends who come from good families), that you have some resentment towards your parents, and that you don't understand why your upbringing was like this, and why your parents treated you like this. I can also see your underlying doubts, unease and uncertainty, and that you don't know if you can escape from such a terrible environment. It seems as if you feel that you can't escape from the shadow of your family, and you are very desperate.
You said, "It's just something that happened recently, and so on. What others see as simple and normal interactions and communication is a huge terror to me." I can see you hiding in your own space, trembling with fear of contact and interaction with others, while at the same time feeling pain, helplessness, and self-loathing for this kind of withdrawal. I can also see how your boyfriend's goodness in this regard makes it even more difficult for you to accept who you are now.
If it still feels painful, then do something you like doing on your own for now, sweetheart.
It seems like fate has brought you a boyfriend like this, and it's likely that it wants you to have good relationships with people just like your boyfriend. You have so much experience and resources, and we can learn a lot from your boyfriend about how to interact with the people around you. Learning to imitate is an important skill for us.
It might be tough to talk to your boyfriend about your worries and anxieties, but when two people share their anxieties and worries, it can really help to make things better. You might find that those anxieties disappear, and the distance between you will also be bridged.
You said you feel intimidated when facing your father. I really want to give you a big hug! It seems to me that when you face your father, you are like a helpless child, afraid of his yelling, unable to express your unease, fear and resistance, and can only hide in your own corner.
I think you're a wonderful young person with so much vitality and potential. You're also an important member of the family. I believe that you can be the leader of a new family relationship. You can even try being a new family member!
I know it might be a bit tricky at first, but there's no need to rush. You can give it a go when you're ready.
Comments
I can totally relate to feeling trapped in an unhappy environment. It's heartbreaking that home, which should be a safe place, feels like a battleground. I admire your courage for standing up for your mom and trying to make things better. Even though it seems like nothing changes, your efforts mean something. Maybe talking to a professional could help you find ways to cope or improve the situation.
It's really tough when family dynamics are so strained. I understand wanting to escape from all the negativity. Sometimes just being there for your mom can make a difference, even if it doesn't seem like it. Have you thought about finding a support group or community where people share similar experiences? It might help to know you're not alone in this.
The contrast between your boyfriend's warm family interactions and your own must be incredibly painful. It's hard not to feel envious. Perhaps it would help to focus on building your own network of supportive friends. Over time, you can create a chosen family that provides the love and acceptance you deserve.
Feeling inadequate compared to others is so common, especially when family life is challenging. Remember that your value isn't defined by your upbringing. Consider therapy as a space to explore these feelings and work through them. A therapist can offer tools to handle difficult emotions and relationships.
Your story resonates deeply with me. It's understandable to feel desperate after growing up in such a tense atmosphere. Seeking professional guidance could provide new perspectives and coping strategies. Also, nurturing positive relationships outside your immediate family, like with your boyfriend, can be healing.