In “Lost in the Reflecting Pool,” psychologist Diane Pomerantz takes us with her as she reflects on her painful marriage to a narcissistic psychiatrist named Charlie. When their relationship began, it seemed that the good outweighed the bad. Charlie “did all the right things,” prompting Diane to overlook some warning signs. As time passed, the couple faced problems with infertility, adoption, and Diane’s breast cancer. Charlie’s behavior worsened and Diane felt emotionally abandoned. It was painful to read as he tried to hold his family together as he struggled to survive. During this time, Diane also discovered that Charlie was having inappropriate relationships with several of her patients. In addition to his other obnoxious behavior, Charlie also leaves a journal for Diane to see and read about his hatred of her. Diane knew she had to find a way to move on with her life before Charlie completely destroyed her.

“Lost in a Reflecting Pool” has some truly heartbreaking moments, but Diane’s strength shines through as she finds a way out and is able to create a better life for herself and her children. Your journey will give strength to other people in similar circumstances. Having personally experienced relationships with narcissists, I was able to relate to much of what she went through, especially when I look back and see how I allowed myself to overlook the warning signs. In one case, I became close friends with the ex-wife of someone I had been in a relationship with. While repeating her same narcissistic behaviors with me, she told me that seeing this helped her realize that she was not crazy. I can fully understand this, because I think that for many of us, it is difficult to understand how someone can receive pleasure by causing pain to others, especially those who are supposed to be a loved one. In Diane’s case, she was a psychologist and he was a psychiatrist. He was in a profession with high ethical standards, especially when it came to patients.

I suspect that some people with narcissistic tendencies may choose careers in mental health because of the ease with which they find their victims. For those of us who sincerely choose to work in professions in which we wish to help others, this is unimaginable, but there is evidence that it does indeed happen. Charlie took his behavior to a higher level, in the sense that he was emotionally abusive towards his family. I see him as a greedy sociopath. I am very happy that Diane escaped and raised two successful children.

Diane Pomerantz’s “Lost in the Reflecting Pool” is a pivotal story for others to read, especially if they’re starting to see some telltale signs. These memories are amazing. Well written and straight from the heart, people will easily identify with much of what you write. Diane is truly inspiring, and I believe that by sharing her harrowing journey, she will help others avoid the same pain. A wonderful message of hope and courage.