Yes, parents can be hurtful. They are people with all their issues and problems -- whether or not they deal with them. Sometimes there is no way but minimalized contact, no matter how hard it hurts.

My parents have been gone for over 25 years, so I can't totally relate. However, my sister lives in NY and I live in CA and that's close enough for me -- especially since she won't get on an airplane! LOL!

But seriously, it's important, as many others have suggested, that you live your own life and begin making your own friends. Not everyone is like your mom. By having friends, you'll start getting the love and affection you are looking for from your mom -- who obviously can't give it to you -- for whatever reason.

in spirit,