Laboring to Love an Abusive Mate

I was in a relationship with a charming man. I thought he was wonderful at first, but it didn't take long for the abuse to start. The first time he hit me, I was completely shocked. I couldn't believe that the man I loved could be capable of something like that. It wasn't long before the abuse became a regular occurrence. He would cheat on me and then use that as an excuse to hit me or scream at me. I was always unhappy and constantly experienced health related challenges. I didn't feel like being intimate with him, but he didn't care. He only wanted what he could get from me financially, sexually, and emotionally. He took advantage of my generosity and kindness. I eventually left him, but the experience has left me scarred for life. Does that sound familiar? However, the last part about “leaving” doesn’t apply to millions of people who are still in abusive relationships. As for the scars, they are like those that appear on the skin, some heal and others remain to b...

The conversations are becoming increasingly difficult to have with an abusive partner. It is clear that you want to end the relationship or maybe he or she wants to but someone isn’t letting go.  Do not take periodic gestures of kindness or a pleasant moment as signs an abuser or yourself  want to stay. Abuse is occurring in the relationship and the longer you stay, the more emotionally and physically damaging it will be to your mind, body and spirit. The following signs are evident that a partner no longer wants to be in a relationship. 1. Your partner no longer wants to spend time with you. If your partner starts making excuses not to spend time with you, it's a sign that they may be considering on breaking up with you. If they used to be all over you and now they can't even stand to be in the same room as you, it's a bad sign. 2. Your partner is suddenly very critical of you. If your partner suddenly starts nitpicking everything you do and pointing out all of your flaws,...