Oh my goodness Kris, don't you just love it when you can fully comprehend the meaning of a word when you live it. You lived an "epiphany" and when that happens, it's a remarkable feeling. I remember how, before Covid - I always understood in my mind what the word "surreal" meant, but I didn't truly get it, until we lived through a period that had no better definition for me. I'm so glad you found an effective and healthy way to deal with your dad, which I imagine, worked for other difficult situations also. Thanks :-)