It can be very frustrating to watch a friend or loved one keep returning to an abusive partner. Leaving an abuser is a long and complicated process. The National Domestic Violence Hotline states that survivors of abuse return to their abusive partners an average of seven times before they leave for good.
Don’t give up on your friend or loved one, help them by showing up, listening, and letting them know they are not alone. For more ways you can help, here is an excellent article about supporting someone who keeps returning to an abusive relationship.
I Got Flowers Today
It wasn’t my birthday or any other special day. We had our first argument last night. He said a lot of cruel things that really hurt me. I know he was sorry and didn’t mean the things he said. Because I got flowers today.
I got flowers today. It wasn’t our anniversary or any other special day. Last night, he threw me into a wall and started to choke me. It seemed like a nightmare. I couldn’t believe it was real. I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over. I know he must be sorry. Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today. It wasn’t Mother’s Day or any other special day. Last night, he beat me up again. And it was much worse than all other times. If I leave him, what will I do? How will I take care of my kids? What about money? I’m afraid of him and scared to leave. But I know he must be sorry. Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today. Today was a very special day. It was the day of my funeral. Last night he finally killed me. He beat me to death. If only I had gathered enough courage and strength to leave him, I would not have gotten flowers…today.
-Paulette Kelly