Welcome to the boomer women board, Oh Susanna. Your honesty in confessing is heartwarming. I hope you take JJ's advice. She's a very wise woman and has a heart of gold.

I have abandonment issues as well. My parents divorced when I was just becoming a teenager and my father was never around for my birthdays. It was hunting season and he always went. My parents went through a series of "step moms & dads" and people faded in and out of my life; including and ex husband who strayed.

I've handled my issues this way. I count my blessings. When I'm having a rough day I focus on what's good in my life. Even things like being able to see the blue sky and hear the birds sing out to each other.

Instead of dwelling on the negative of my insecurity, I turn my focus around and think about the positive aspects of my life. It works for me, I hope it'll work for you as well.