"Why isn't there a commandment to 'honor thy children' or at least one to 'not abuse thy children'?" asks Beverly Engel. No one should have to tolerate an abusive or destructive relationship. However, countless adults continue to foster toxic relationships with their parents. Perhaps honoring our parents starts with honoring ourselves. While making peace with a parent may seem ideal, it is not always a viable option, and severing ties with a parent is sometimes a necessity. Engel, who had to divorce her mother for a number of years, recognizes that forgiveness is not always necessary or...

"Why isn't there a commandment to 'honor thy children' or at least one to 'not abuse thy children'?" asks Beverly Engel. No one should have to tolerate an abusive or destructive relationship. However, countless adults continue to foster toxic relationships with their parents. Perhaps honoring our parents starts with honoring ourselves. While making peace with a parent may seem ideal, it is not always a viable option, and severing ties with a parent is sometimes a necessity. Engel, who had to divorce her mother for a number of years, recognizes that forgiveness is not always necessary or...