Hi AL. I am going to offer another bit of advice to go along with the communication.
You gotta stop the pity parties.
You gotta really start using the 'Fake it until you make it'
When you have these short conversations. You gotta portray who you really are. And that is a woman. A wonderful woman. A wonderful mother. One who has some scars but one who is going to make it no matter the outcome. You are a good honest nice person. Remember who you are. And start to communicate as yourself again. Practice this with everyone you know. Remember what it was like to be happy. Practice it. Show it outwardly.
The next time he comes at you with the I am down in the dumps. Smile and say " Yes, I agree. I can see that your really down in the dumps." Then carry on about your day. Because you just validated Mr. AL and did not push. Did not chase. You showed confidence. You were a decent human being. You were nice.
