I left, for good this time
One month ago, I walked out of my marriage to my AH. I am staying with friends, we are not talking, only texting logistics as I file for divorce. This journey has taken years. Our daughter is 11 and I remember the red flags of hidden bottles, open containers in his car back when she was a toddler. I tried to separate and leave but always caved, believing maybe this time would be different. As anyone who has been married to an alcoholic, I have put up with years of emotional abuse, shrinking myself and my needs and compromising my values just to survive. For those of you in a similar situation, you are not alone. For those of you who have reached the other side, any words of encouragement would be great. It is a bit scary out here in the in-between place but nowhere near as frightening and traumatic as living with a crazy-making A. Thanks for letting me share my story here.