Thank you for your story. It helps me see that in some situations people will stay with people that abuse them. I guess circumstance is a big factor. I can understand that if you were isolated staying with an abusive partner might be the only option.

It must be so difficult if you love someone, to make that decision to leave the second man . I know it's possible to love someone but not their behaviour. My mam has a drinking problem, and while I love her, I hate how she behaves.

I'm happy that as a family you were strong enough to make him leave once he became physically abusive. No one has the right to hit another person in anger. I'm glad that you have the ability to see him as a friend now while still maintaining mistrust. That seems very wise to me.

But yeah, abusive partners just suck, and I hate that it happens

Yeah, totally. But I can see reading your story that on some occasions people might not be able to leave, that does help me understand a little.

I hope you've achieved happiness in your life now. Thanks again for sharing.