nicam
I am just beginning to realize that I am not the crazy one. I believed the lies and the manipulation to the point where I avoided everyone close to me after being told how no one could stand me due to my insanity. I also have realized that age, experience, education, whatever, is no defense against such a sustained attack on our esteem. I would have told you I am smarter than to fall into such a trap. Obviously, I wasn't. I am working on recovering myself and that is what I would encourage you to do too. We do not have to be hollow shells; we can fill them with goodness, love, and self-value.
You are sooooo right. The stories are so heartbreakingly similar.