Dear Abby: I’m having trouble forgiving my friend who called my late parents ugly

DEAR ABBY: I have a persecution complex. I know where it comes from. My mother repeatedly told me how ugly I was as a child.

Recently, I was going through some rough times. My sister, whom I was in charge of, had a massive stroke and subsequently died. I’d had to take care of her, and I resented it. When she had the stroke, I began reminiscing, and not all of the memories were good ones.

I happened upon a picture of my family taken when I was 10. My older sisters and parents were also in the photo. When I showed the photo to my friend, her reaction left me speechless. She practically threw the phone down and said, “What an ugly family! Your mother is ugly and fat, and your father is ugly, too!” She continued with more of the same. Other than that, she’s a kind and giving friend.

I can’