Aura, this is a BRILLIANT bit of writing.

It is insanely raw, truthful and dripping with insight.

You are an amazing woman.

I love your metaphor of the river of denial. How easy it is to be dragged downstream.

The only thing you make light of is how much work it is to swim back upstream.

Your willingness to take ownership of your own coping mechanisms and also of the role you played with your father takes strength, true compassion and a lot of self awareness. All of these take courage and effort.

I see a girl who has never stopped loving her father.

Your honesty and skill with words inspires me. Thank you.