2. Don’t expect gratitude and recognition
Hope lives in each of us: someday the children will realize, repent, return with flowers and say:
“I’m sorry, mom, you’re the best.”
But that rarely happens. And the waiting becomes an unbearable burden. The best thing you can do is stop expecting.
Acknowledge your love and efforts to yourself. You’ve been a good mother—that’s enough. Say “thank you.” Pat yourself on the back. You deserve it.
3. Separate your feelings from their actions
We tend to take other people’s actions personally. If the child doesn’t call, then I’m a bad mother. If he’s rude, then I’ve ruined everything.
But it’s not. Their behavior is their universe, their trauma, their fatigue. It may have nothing to do with you at all.
Don’t let this coldness enter your heart. Where they are, there are their choices. Where you are, there is your warmth. Keep it.
4. Stop being a victim
When we are hurt by those close to us, the temptation is to hide in the role of victim:
“I did everything for them, and they…”
But sacrifice is weakness. It is a refusal to influence your life.
