Doug,

Your title to this says it all. The truth hurts and the easiest way to avoid hurt is sometimes denial. As a mother of 2 sons I think she does love you both the same and because she does, tries not to get in the middle and unbeknownst to you probably defends you to him. Each of mine would like to think they have my favor against the other, but I do love both the same. Whatever issue they take with each other has nothing to do with me and I won't allow myself to be used as a weapon in their battles. It's not easy to remain neutral when you're smack in the middle, but to do so she can neither agree nor side with you.

You've come so far with your counseling to allow these emotions to retake control of your life again. Moving to Arkansas will put some geographical distance between you and your brother which can only serve to improve things in that area. It probably would be best right now if you focus on getting you and Teddy there. Keep me posted- I worry about you guys.

Maria

Doug,

Yes the truth hurts sometimes. I too have a brother but we were not raised together. I could write a novel lol about the skeletons in the closet. We cannot go back and change the past nor can we change others though we try. Trying to change others only leads us to more frustration and hurt. We have today to live for and to look towards our futures. You do what you can to get you and Teddy to Arkansas if that will be better for you. As a door closes, another opens.

Take care and give Teddy a hug from his cyber Aunties.