Abuse Hides in the Dark. Turn on Your Light.

Jim’s Story – Leaving Abuse

story of leaving abuse

What happened that made you decide to leave?

She dumped me again. I had no choice. I'm glad she didn't change her mind again. I stopped talking to her completely because we were still being verbally abusive to each other after the breakup.

How did you feel about your abuser and/or your relationship in the days before you left?

I was abusive too. It was a shitty relationship. I wanted her to love me but I didn't know how to show her love or help her without being a complete jerk.

I knew she would dump me. Part of me wanted it to happen. She was so mean sometimes. It hurt everyday.

What three emotions did you most experience in the days closest to leaving Abuse? How did you deal with them?

Shame, fear, and sadness. I drank too much.

What planning did you do before you left? Who knew you were leaving besides you?

story of leaving abuseI invited a friend to a concert.

My ex's twitter friends probably knew she'd be dumping me.

What were the one or two BEST things you did before you left?

Gave her and the cats hugs.

If there was anything you wish you had not done before you left, what was it?

I wish I had treated her better and had taken better care of our old place. I wish I'd brought her gifts and did something for our anniversary.

Is there anything else you would like to say?

Don't stay in a codependent relationship.

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