There's a point where you look at your spouse, you love them dearly, care about their well-being, but in the end, you end up putting your heart and gut before their needs.
This was a huge undertaking for me. This was really the first time in my marriage that I honestly put myself first. It's sad to say — to acknowledge — but it's the truth.
So, many people choose to stay married for the sake of their children. I couldn't sacrifice myself anymore. I realized their well-being, as well as mine, was just far too important to continue to remain in an abusive relationship.
It seems simple enough, that I should have never allowed my needs, desires, and wants to be placed at the bottom of the list, but they sat there for years. I would look into the faces of my children and force fun into our lives. It was exhausting.
Unhappiness in my heart swelled, with no release. Tension rose for quite some time, before threats were made and I asked my husband to leave our home. After he did, I saw so much light and hope.
I knew that I was going to be okay, despite what divorce meant spiritually, emotionally, and financially. I truly saw hope swelling my way.
