Neither of my parents were crazy, mean,
or bad people but if I had to do it over again,
I likely wouldn’t choose either of them.
I’d want a more patient, accessible,
understanding father, who supported me—
was less critical, and accepting of how I was.
For my mother I’d choose similar qualities,
but in addition I’d want someone who didn’t
use me as a sounding board for her own problems.
Given that I’ve known several people who came
from abusive, dysfunctional families—and heard
many stories of the same—I’d probably give my parents
a B- grade overall.
I did love them in my own way— and wish they both
were still around…
