Hi Sam,

I completely relate to you. I am Middle Eastern too, and have similar issues of dishonesty and betrayal with my mother. It’s very hard to reconcile what the culture demands of us in terms of respecting our parents, and our own experience with them. But as adults it’s our own experience we have to go with–no matter what the cost.

If I can give you a bit of advice that has worked for me–do cut off all ties with your father. Distance yourself from your family. Save yourself. You’re the only one who will. That within itself is disappointing, since we’re Middle Eastern and family is supposed to be everything, but it’s the truth.

Forge your own path in this life. With your own ideals. Your father has his issues, yes. But they are not yours.

Good luck 🙂

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