Thanks for sharing, SSIL.
I also grew up in a home with an alcoholic and physically / verbally abusive father and depressed mother (and who could blame her).
Your post gave me an mini-breakthrough and a good reason to be thankful this weekend!
Isn't it incredible that as a child growing up in that sort of situation, you dream about the day that you're a grown up and set your own rules, live the way you want to live and not have to put up with other people's stupid behaviour. Then you grow up to become a self-sufficient adult and have a say in what your life situation looks like ..... only to numb yourself from the realities and responsibilities that come from being said grown up rather than reflect on the peace that you always dreamed of as a kid?!?!
Good to get back on the right path. Here's to finally having some peace, indeed!