Perhaps your DB advice guy should have an advice column: Kernels of Truth.
I was thinking about the feeling of 'aloneness'. Perhaps its the flipside of 'living high drama', where everyday is a one-two punch. There's an ebb in the action and nothing to fight.
When all the turmoil was brewing you/we were learning ways to manage and grow through an impossible situation as best flawed beings can.
Most of us have children from infant to adult. We protect ourselves by fighting for the family, then fighting for the child. At some point it's a 'let go of the rope' moment and a strange sense of calm ensues.
The person you thought always had your back, doesn't. The person you inherently trusted, even if things were rocky, can't be. The person you thought you were changes. The armor you've worn, bulked up has changed. With each step toward health, one more sheath is removed.
The shine glows beneath the tarnish slowly polished off.
