You did what you believed right in showing her the error of her ways. Since she's been absent from your life for so long, it's quite natural that her mum's ways have become a bigger part of her than yours have. In that regard, Dean, you
did not fail!
Her mum failed and so has she. I can understand the pain you're feeling and I wish so much that I could help erase it.
As much of a screwball as you are on this forum,
I sense a strong, decent fella whom I am proud to call "friend". Would God that I lived nearer to you so you and I could crack open a pint and you could use my ear for a while.
As I read your ending post to this saga, I could feel your heart tearing in half. Mine would be the same, were I wearing your shoes.
Hang with us. We'll help you walk through these dark days.
Go ahead, the tears are well deserved.
Monte