ShootingStar, you were damaged by the man, but, had enough of a sense of self-preservation--some primitive drive for survival left that enabled you to get out in time to save yourself.
Many of us have lost a partner (mine, recently to sudden death) and lost out homes--watched it disappear--room by room--as we pack for departure. Close a chapter that will, forevermore exist only in our memories. Racked with waves of grief, at times and marveling at how surreal it all feels.
And, then we get up in the morning; make our coffee and walk the dogs. Facing forward by some force within us that says: "Life"; "Go Forward".....and we do.
dandylion