Proud survivor of 13 years.

I’d like to start this post out by saying my favorite quote for those of you who are afraid confused or thinking the abuse you endure is normal. “Love should never hurt.” My story started at 14. I was a young freshman in high school trying to find herself when my abuser found me. It started out normal, cute and sweet but over the next 4 years became a nightmare. I was isolated from my friends he didn’t like, got into a lot of trouble with my family and was isolated from them as well. The the put downs started. “Why are you dressed like such a slut today?” “I hate dumbing things down for you.” One day we were heading to a concert. Back in those days there was no google maps or gps. We had printed Mapquest directions. I was in charge of giving the directions while he drove. I messed up and we missed a few turns. He turned into a person I’ve never seen. He clutched the steering wheel and screamed “do you want to die?” “I’ll kill us both.” While swerving into on coming traffic while I cried hysterically. After almost 4 years the straw that broke the camels back and made me realize if I stayed in the situation I could die was the night he took a leather belt from his car ran up behind me in front of two friends and slapped me as hard as he possibly could between my legs. I collapsed in a fetal position clenching my leg and crying uncontrollably. To this day I still remember the fire in his eyes when I looked up and the words he said which were “get the fuck it your fine.” Come to find out now he’s married and has a baby girl. He’s tried to make contact I have refused and according to him he’s going to therapy and my name had come up a lot with the therapist. I’ve learned to forgive however sometimes I think back to those days and wish I could go back in time to warn myself of what was going to come. Every October is domestic violence awareness month and I celebrate by posting on my social media and wearing the color purple which symbolizes domestic violence. I am proud to say now at 31 years old I am a survivor, I am alive and never again will anyone ever try to take my light for me. Be strong be brave and get out. Never forget how beautiful intelligent and strong you are no matter what they say. If anyone is in need of an ear to talk to or a friend who understands don’t hesitate to reach out to me. You can survive this you will survive this you just need to take the steps forward and I’m happy to hold your hand to help you get there 💛💜💙💚.