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Recognizing Signs of Manipulative and Controlling Relationships

Updated: Oct 24, 2024


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Someone who wants to control you may employ tactics of alienation, aiming to distance you from your family, friends, and even your children. This serves a number of purposes; for example, it prevents recognition of their behavior by third parties, maintains dependence, and further isolates you from potential sources of assistance in the event of your choosing to leave or recognize the deceptions that have been perpetuated. Such behavior is an alarming sign of a lost soul in need of profound healing who has yet to confront and properly process a plethora of past traumas.


These types tend to be master manipulators and narcissists, expertly exploiting others' weaknesses and using them to their advantage. One of their primary control mechanisms is inducing a sense of shame, guilt, and fear—an unholy trinity that has been used to subjugate others since time immemorial. Such individuals often go so far as to study psychology or read books related to the subject in order to enhance their tactics, displaying an appalling lack of empathy or remorse for their actions. They will often start by gradually pointing out one's flaws and characteristics that make the victim inferior, until it eventually develops into full-blown disrespect.


If one finds themselves in a cycle of toxicity in a relationship, chances are it is a symptom of contagious dysfunction spanning generations. Denial, lack of accountability, and unwillingness to seek therapy are only a few displays of this. In such a situation, the likelihood that true love is present is next to none. Attempts at salvaging such a relationship have only yielded catastrophic results. Thus, one should be wary of the pitfalls of trying to save someone who is manipulative in such a way and losing sight of and neglecting their own needs in the process.


It is understandable to be scared of the unknown, yet extraordinary courage is required in order to take the necessary steps to safeguard one's wellbeing. We must remember the power of our self-worth and accept that it is never acceptable to compromise oneself for someone else who is not treating us with the respect and kindness we deserve. Consequently, we must strive to be observant of the patterns in our relationships that may be indicative of dysfunction and take action to end them. The act of loving oneself is essential in order to create healthy boundaries and walk away from negative or harmful situations. Taking a stand for oneself can be challenging; however, it is required for living a life that is filled with self-empowering and enriched experiences.


Will I find love again? Can I pay these bills alone? What will my family think? Such questions can put a heavy burden on one's heart. Yet, I want to encourage you to find the inner strength to keep yourself nourished despite life's trials and tribulations. Do not be frustrated by the doubt and fear of the unknown, for you are a valiant soul with the capability to break the chains that shackle your spirit. Allow yourself the chance to tap into your potential and inner power. Whatever comes your way, know that you are never alone, and a helping hand is always just an empathetic ear away.

It is of upmost importance to remember that putting yourself first is a form of self-love and is in no way indicative of being a 'bad soul.' No matter the circumstances—family, friends, work, or otherwise—if you are not strong enough to handle the situation alone, seek help. To truly break the cycle of dysfunctional generational curses, one must practice self-love, reminding ourselves continually that healing is a process and that our value is always worth far more than we can assign to it. Though none of us are experts or therapists, as self-healers, we can learn from our own life experiences, knowing that each of us is capable of enacting real change.


A poem called: The Divine Herein.


In the realm of the Divine Natural Law, one discovers their own being, Love thyself, for you are perfectly fantastic, a masterpiece of the Heaven's King. Take a moment's pause in front of the mirror, and greet the architect within, The power that exists in you is greater than any force, upon which the earth begins.


I have been by your side, every step of the way, even in moments of solitude, The divine presence herein, a constant companion, a truth to be pursued. Peel away the layers of this world, and embrace the boundless expanse that is your soul, Rediscover the childlike wonder, the freedom and the joy, let your spirit unfold.


The love I have for you, is vast and unfathomable, a constant, nurturing force, A love that transcends all barriers, a love that guides and helps you to embark on your course. When you love yourself, with a depth that matches mine, the veils of illusion will disappear, And you will feel the sustained, unwavering love, a connection both strong and clear.


So look within, and discover the divine, the love, the power, the truth that resides, In the stillness, and the silence, let go, and allow your spirit to outflow like the sun-glows. For I am within you, a constant presence, a love that never fades, A bond that is eternal, a love that never retrogrades.


So take a moment, and stand in front of the mirror, and let yourself be seen, A divine being of light and love, everything you've ever dreamed of, the real you, bitch self-love. For I am within you, and have always been, a truth that will never fade, A love that is soundless, countless, a bond that will never betray.

©️ 2023 All rights reserved in perpetually.

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© Copyright 2025 A.D. Philip S. Wathen, Jr. All Autarchy Rights Reserved in Perpetuity without Ceasing, Reservation, Exception, or Prejudice.

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