My Mother Called Me “Damaged Goods” at My Sister’s Baby Shower—Then My Five Children Walked Through the Door

about your situation.”

Situation.

That was one of my mother’s favorite weapons.

Cruelty disguised as manners.

Humiliation disguised as concern.

“You’ve been through so much,” she continued.

“The diagnosis. The complications. The disappointment.”

She shook her head sadly.

“It must take tremendous courage to attend an event like continue reading …