Yeah I've grown resiliant n made my own path, and feel proud of what I achieved thus far. I'm a strong character and will keep my trap shut n be polite, but that doesn't make the exchanges any easier if you know what I mean.
My grandparents on mums side taught me all I need, as they were my 'real' family. I'm the better man n know it, so my impression will reflect that. It doesn't really build bridges, but will indicate how I was brought up by mum (who did all the hard work).
I'd seriously love to dish a massive spray to the lot of them (which they all deserve), but I know I'm better than that, and can show the lot of these bastards that I've done what they couldn't... ;)

