@anita

Very true! When I was younger a relative was having difficulty swimming. I tried to help her and she clung to me trying to drag me down with her. I got her off me and waited for her to stop struggling, before helping her again.

I thought about this and agree. So far I have managed to heal up to a certain point. But healing will always be to a certain point, while I allow abuse to a certain point.

Last night I thought about what it would be like if I was wholly loved and respected by everyone I let into my life. I wondered how that might change me and how I would heal.

You mentioned that cessation of abuse was only the first step. I’m curious about what other steps there are?