Part of a message from a relative I’ve literally met ONCE in my life telling me how to live my life re: family and the abuse I’ve experienced.

I don’t share this for sympathy but to show that this is so common for survivors.

p.s. I am who I am despite them, not because of them

This is how I respond these days, short and sweet. Always remember you don’t owe explanations to messages and letters like this.