In the Absence of a Mother's Love: a Survivor's Story

After a traumatic, life-changing event, Anna Lee Barrett found herself overcome with heartbreak and desperation. An otherwise happy, smart, well-adjusted middle-aged woman, blessed with more than most, she had reached the point of no return, emotional bankruptcy. In search of understanding and healing, Anna began journaling thoughts and feelings beyond her control. As she wrote, she discovered an unexpected connection to her past. Her emotional behavior resembled interactions she had...
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After a traumatic, life-changing event, Anna Lee Barrett found herself overcome with heartbreak and desperation. An otherwise happy, smart, well-adjusted middle-aged woman, blessed with more than most, she had reached the point of no return, emotional bankruptcy. In search of understanding and healing, Anna began journaling thoughts and feelings beyond her control. As she wrote, she discovered an unexpected connection to her past. Her emotional behavior resembled interactions she had with her mother in childhood. Through research, Anna discovered Attachment, the bond between caregiver and child in the first three years, is the foundation of all life. It affects the physical and emotional development and well-being of every human being regardless of color, creed, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Attachment security is the root of many behavioral disorders and the most powerful predictor of life success. On the outside, Anna had all the makings of a fairytale childhood: a devoted dad and stay-at-home mom, siblings, a full-time caretaker, involved extended family, a stately home, superior education, elite summer camp, and a first-class European vacation. However, the one thing she needed most for a healthy existence was missing, a secure Attachment with her primary caregiver. This left Anna with a debilitating handicap that no one could see, but the resulting scars colored her world from birth. Because emotional responses are instinctual based on early experiences, not rational thought, intimate relationships replicate the Attachment bond. Thus, it was no surprise to learn that Anna followed this pattern of familiarity, not one of success. From infancy to marriage, and ruin to recovery, her memoir chronicles a privileged life that was anything but what it seemed. Journey with Anna as she unravels the truths of her childhood, dissects her adult intimate relationships, and comes to terms with her past and present emotions and behaviors. You'll laugh and cry, jeer and cheer. In the process, you might just discover something about yourself or a loved one.