Welcome to my world 8! My W's OP was also very helpful career wise and supporting her in her bid for higher education. OP is also a manager whereas I am a lowly mental health worker and an evil union steward! Yes, feeding the need for validation and esteem is always a big feather for the OP. I too supported my W in every endeavour she wanted to undertake but while I was putting out the fires on the homefront, OP was busy filling the void. You mention SELFISH, indeed they are. To carry on the way they are right now they MUST push others needs out of the heads otherwise they'd feel the guilt. My W just pushes ahead like a bull, no time for thought! Anyway, thanks for the opportunity to launch a pity party Next time, I'll bring the pretzels!