Another contributing factor to this attachment of the feelings and thoughts, it occurs to me, is guilt. Guilt, and need.

The connection to my upbringing in my family of origin is easy to find here. An attachment of need instead of affection or love; and, in an environment of verbal aggression and control, guilt gets in there too.

This seems to be part of a bereavement/grieving process. Letting go of guilt and shame is certainly part of coming to terms with failure and mistakes. This has been a lengthy, tedious, messy job, and I had to confront a lot of denial and anger before I could see the guilt and shame for what they are.

No wonder post-traumatic stress is kicking in. It will help to see this as part of a natural healing process, moving in a positive direction. Thanks for listening.