Sometimes when I read or watch shows where people have happy, supportive parents, I actually can’t help but cry because how different might life be if I was encouraged instead of shut down?

So, I totally understand how you feel. And it’s one of those both things can be true situations: you can be so happy for your cousin, but you can also envy her. I’ve spent years in therapy thanks to my parents, but the truth is, it’ll always be a little wound somewhere on me that opens it. I’m just better at treating it now.

I know this sounds like tripe, but we love you! We’re proud of you! Too many of us in here understand! We gotcha back!