Linda,
Have you had any children with this man? If not, then leave him now while you can. I know some addicts get sober/clean and stay that way for years, but many do not. My Dad was an alcoholic who was never sober for more than a few months. I know it sounds cruel, but the rest of your life may be a misery if you stay with this violent alcoholic and have his children, so you should get away while the getting is good.
Alcoholism is hereditary, so you run the risk of having alcoholic children or grandchildren some day.
My daughter is an addict, just like my father, although I was lucky enough not to marry one or be one myself. I love my daughter very much--but sometime, on bad days, when she was using/drinking (she is clean now) there were times when I wished I had never had children.
Warm regards and prayers,
Melly
[This message has been edited by Melly (edited September 08, 2001).]