How I did it: I knew him for three years before we got together and we were together for a year before he started beating me. I had to call his mom first and tell her that I was breaking up with him because every time I tried he would just go to wherever I was (he knew where I was at all times). I did it when I had a lot of family in town so there was no way he would come over to my house. He came up to my school with a gun two days after I broke up with him and I ended up having to get a restraining order. It got to a point where I realized it wasnt my fault, and I didnt deserve it or have to take it. I had had enough.

Lessons & tips: There is absolutely  NO REASON  why ANYone should be abused (physically, verbally or sexually)! It comes to a point when you have to love yourself enough to get out. They may tell you that they'll change but they wont. After realizing that it wasnt me, it was him, I stayed because I honestly thought he would change... and he didnt. He isolated me from my friends and family so I felt I had no one to turn to. After getting out I realized that they were there all along, wanting me to be happy; and safe.

Resources: I had to find strength in myself to leave. When it comes down to it, it's on you. There are people that will help you get out if you need help. But you have to make sure you're ready to leave, and not go back.

If you need to talk to someone, I'm here.
Shontay06@yahoo.com

---

Dec 06, 2008, 11:17AM PST | 0 comments | 2 cheers