Wow Chevie, I see so many comments on the order of "times have changed" (and it's people who are changing - not times) and I was so touched by how you wrote about your mother. You're a caring, whole person and able to forgive and care for her, which I find completely admirable and also good for you. I don't necessarily think "times have changed" so very much, and I highlighted the part where you said your mom was in such need of any kind of companionship (agreed "love" in quotes) that she was willing to keep seeing Tom even though she knew what he'd done. I love that after so much trauma, you are able to still care for your mother and have been able to break the cycle of abuse.