Only myself: while using I certainly loved -- but it was limited and conditional.
Sober and Clean I think I truly love.
For me love is so much more than a single thing, includes caring, selflessness, understanding, politeness, Samaritan actions, kindness, peace, responsible and so much more.
Never could I embrace true love when not living sober. But today, I am not conning, conniving, cheating, stealing, bitter....I think I love and that I am loved.
I wouldn't expect anything from him....hold responsible yes...
But we can not control or change
Best to you....you are a wonderful person...a great mother....and a caring person.