Looking at this picture reminds me of the start of my journey over a year and a half ago. It seemed like my life was caving in all around me and there was nothing I could do about it. Today, now that the worst part is over, I realize that situation was the best thing that could have ever happened for me and my family. I am a proud survivor of narcissistic abuse. I endured 18 years of abuse by the hand of my spouse who vowed to love and cherish me. Sometimes, I still feel the shame and embarrassment when I share my story with others, because you wonder, "Why would you allow yourself to go through that". Then I have to remind myself that everyone is not familiar with narcissistic abuse. This type of abuse is not in plain sight. It involves stealthy mind games, lies, and tons of excuses of how bad their childhood was. To learn more I would suggest googling the term. Once I was educated on the situation, I was determined to make it out. My mind and soul is at peace now. I still battle with post-traumatic stress disorder, but I live each day grateful to be alive. If you find yourself coming out of this type of relationship, just take one day at a time and know that you too can make it. It will be greater, later.
