Close encounters of the MLC kind

[hoosiermama]

Hmmm--dysfunction. The gift that keeps on giving.

I really believe this is what is meant by "generational curses" and the "sins of the fathers (and mothers) being visited upon their children down through 7 generations." Until someone, somewhere gets help of some kind, breaks the pattern, becomes conscious of their behavior and responses and chooses to make (w)holy decisions.

You know your wife will say things that only make sense to her at this point. I've learned not to take most of it to heart, unless it "resonates" or feels like it's true, or unless it hurts really badly--which usually means there's some truth in it that I'm denying. The rest I chalk up to projection, justification, and just plain needing to hurt someone. I do believe we find spouses that can replicate our family issues so that we can continue to work them out--and I find that an interesting theological reflection. I thought I had done enough work the second time around to avoid this trap, but I don't think we ever do. It's that limited self-differentiation thing.
Have you become your father in your mind?

I don't know you well, but from what I've come to know you're not sleepwalking through life. Our kids know we're at least trying, and I know that counts for something.