Feels like estrangement

Well it may not only be the OP who'll be relieved to know that you don't care to get into anything else that she's had the courage to share Careen: I know I am.

I'm always extremely suspicious of such an unpleasant response from someone whose never posted on GN before specki4eyes and hope Gmax ignores it.

It is sad when we must accept that the relationship we have with AC isn't what we thought it would be Gmax and FWIW I think you're doing the right thing letting go of your hopes and dreams and doing what you can to live your best life.

I'm glad that counselling has enabled you to build your self esteem because that takes a real battering when your AC treat you this way.

Stay strong and keep doing what you're doing .

I support Careen415's comment - the first paragraph she wrote.

The positive side of your AC telling you is that you know what the issue is and a solution can be implemented.

Been there and thankfully come out of it….well, hopefully.
The offending comment, was so innocuous (in my opinion) that I can’t remember what it was. I apologised not once, but a million times and finally my DS gave in.
It was so traumatic that I honestly cannot remember what brought it on.
It’s all so sad, isn’t it ?

Goodness me Careen145! Have a heart! The OP has bravely offered thoughts that are troubling her...wouldnt it be kinder to try to empathise with her sadness and disappointment?

Personally I cannot see anything that she has written which doesnt justify her feelings. She brought up three children alone and is now feeling cast aside and neglected for no justifiable reason.

Shes making a positive attempt to create a meaningful life for herself. Why not a word or two of encouragement rather than barely veiled criticisms.

It's good you're in counselling.
Would your children be open to attending family therapy?

Due to the nature of relationships, more than one perspective matters. You may consider the comment to be innocent and small, but the other party may have it stuck on their mind forever and you don't get to decide how they should feel about it.

There are a lot more troubling things about your way of thinking that I don't care to get into but at least you managed to say one wise thing, not everyone should be a parent.