Fundamental to any recovery from a relationship with a covert narcissist is a great support network. This is mine. For clarity, they are the three on the right side of the photo. I cannot say enough great things about all of them. For starters, we all go back 30+ years. The two gentleman and I worked together as submarine nuclear reactor operators. The lady is one of the finest examples of a spouse, under very demanding conditions as a submariners wife.
This is the group of people I was visiting before I was gifted with my welcome home surprise. From the moment I received the letter that read like a deposition; to receiving a false order of protection; and so on; they have been steadfast in their support and encouragement. They allow me to call any time, whether it be to vent, or to cry. And yes, there have been plenty of both. They have also visited me from great distances at the drop of a hat in my times of need.
I sometimes call them the “Law Offices of J, J, & P” (their first initials) because they have been a great source of advice and counsel. Every step of the way, I consulted with them. Between all of us, we have been able to predict every step of my covert narcissist. As a result, I have always been one step ahead of her….maybe more. While she has been playing checkers, we have been playing chess. From the get go, we have always known that we had “checkmate in three.”
I simply could not be so far along in my recovery without them. I am very fortunate to have them as my family.