I am one of "THEM"

Yesterday my therapist suggested I go to this program that provides intervention services to women, men and children who have experienced domestic violence. So I can get educated on the cycle of abuse. I can't believe it. I am one of "them." I just came from there with the below handouts.

I can't believe it. I am one of "them." How can this be? I am educated, I have my BS in Family Science, I know all about this stuff. I am pretty, independent, and strong. I have left 2 marriages due to abuse. I really thought this time would be different. I really thought he was different.  

Apparently I'm too strong for my own good. I put up with too much.  On the other hand my tolerance level is lessening and my eyes are being opened quicker.  It took me 6 months of living in fear to escape the first marriage and abt 15 yrs to admit that he hit me. Back then I was so scared, so ashamed that I made a bad choice.  It took me 10 years to figure out I was living in an abusive marriage with my second husband. And I guess you can be happy for me that I'm realizing so early on that husband #3 isn't a good fit either. I guess you can say I'm lucy to still be alive. Lucky to have the love and support from my family and friends and smart to realize the signs so early on.

When I return from my Bali trip I will enter their 15 week class and hopefully learn how to get out of this cycle. 

I'm off to the temple soon to enjoy some peace before I go to our couple's counseling session.

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