6 Comments

I left my first husband for exactly this reason. I watched my daughters as their father sank into drugs and abuse and realized that what I did, how I reacted, was a lesson for them. I would be teaching them to give in or be strong, to be silent or speak up for themselves, to be abused or to walk away. I know why he fell into drugs and one day I will tell you his story because I think it is interesting. Those reasons are why I stayed as long as I did, I wanted to help him. When I realized I couldn't, I knew I had to leave. When I came home unexpectedly one day and found my children cowering in a corner, I knew it was time. I also realized that I, and my mother before me, were trained to stay regardless of how dark it was and mine was much darker than theirs. Now the girls know they can stay or go and choose not from fear but from that strength I know they have within them. We are their teachers just as we have been taught and it isn't anyone's fault... we all do the best we can. Good story!

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Thank you for sharing your story, Laura. My mom made the courageous choice to leave when women rarely did so. You showed strength and acted as an amazing role model for your children!

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Since I was a child I have been wondering why love hurts. I am still waiting for the answer.

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Humans are such flawed creatures. We bring our damage into our relationships and too often then inflict damage on those closest to us. 💜 {{{Annelise}}}💜

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Nice story and a great song by Taylor! I had never heard it before!

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Thanks, Kim. I really love this song. Finding a story to write from it is a bonus!

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