I cannot thank you ladies enough for the inspiration that you have provided to me. I am 41 years old (Monday!), I have two kids, and I have been a serial forever-girlfriend. I have been horribly treated by NVMs. Despite being highly educated, I have been devalued and "knocked down a peg or two" by man-children whom somehow convinced themselves that they were better than me. After my last narc boyfriend of six (!) years broke up with me (I consider it the best gift of my life), I found you guys. With the help of the ladies in this sub, substantial time by myself, and good therapy, I have just recently started dating. I am now ruthless. Block and delete felt foreign to me at first, but it feels so good now. I give no one a second chance now, and before, I gave them infinite chances. Professionally I have hit my groove, and I am an excellent role model for my two girls. I never thought that I would get to this place but I deserve nothing but the best, and so do all of you!