We can't change the past but we can take many steps to make our present much better, and different, from what we learned and from what we have known!
I spent 30 years going to my dad for empathy and protection! I can't judge anyone here....
But a very small shift, some small acceptance I just won't get it from him, has made me feel sad at first -but very free afterwards.
I know I am vulnerable so my main focus these days is to
1 Talk only to wise, empathetic, healthier, and/or spiritual people
2 Ignore everyone else
I stopped talking and calling so many people, but the couple of friends I still got make all the difference. I stopped talking to all ex's, their family, their friends, even people with their first name, LOL! my life is truly better without toxic people. Its like when you want to lose weight, well have a boyfriend who visits McDonalds everyday and you won't get far, but hang around with gym instructors and you'll get there even without much effort... I am one of those that believe your friends and relationships are a mirror of yourself.
I have never seen beautiful elegant swans hanging around with noisy ducks. Not once.
HUGS!