I agree that your father may have invalidated how you’re feeling by saying it was “for your own good.” I experienced a falling out with my biological mother and I haven’t seen her in 2 years (and we haven’t talked in 1.5 years now). I understand this is a difficult time for you and just want you to know you’re not alone.

I’ve looked up many articles on how to let go and forgive someone to alleviate feelings of sadness and anxiety. I can only speak for my personal situation, but my mom wasn’t able to offer me an apology or “comforting words,” so it has made the process more difficult.

This link may be helpful to you: https://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/201605/rewrite-your-life

The article states: “From writing down your experiences to reframing your perspective, myriad techniques can help you transcend painful setbacks and reshape your own story.” This is something I would like to try.