Originally Posted by
sugarbear1 
Abuse is like alcoholism; it's progressive.
Sometimes things aren't meant to last, including long term relationships. Next time, you may not survive. Love is not abuse.
This is very true. What started with simple slaps across the face became choking sessions where I really thought I was going to die. And it took me a long time to listen to my brain tell me that if someone wanted to choke me to near death, whether drunk or not, they obviously didn't love me no matter how much I loved them. I can tell from your posts that you are a sweet and thoughtful person and are mature enough to make your own decisions. But, I don't want you to be hurt by the hands of anyone else or even your own. Next time you may not be lucky enough to tell us of your situation as you won't be around to do so.
With that said, I am really happy to read that you are focusing on yourself and not anyone else right now. I am rooting for you.