My family life is today what I make it. That excludes the JW side because they are what they are. Their lose, not mine. Really. They miss out on the grandchildren, the greatgrandchilren, the neices, nepehews, cousins...the LOVE. AHHHHH...so thankful I'm no longer missing their association. Remember, bad association spoils useful habits. And my habit is about embracing the many who for whatever reason are not allowed, or chose to not have association with their immediate family. I know we're on a site for recovering JW's, but talk to children of alcholics or other drug user's...maybe even the workaholic...or those who grew up around mentally disturbed parent(s) in general. JW children are hardly alone when it comes to feelings of abandoment by the parents. But I do understand what you're getting at.....cheers.
Granny