David..

Sometimes in life, you meet someone you believe is the light of your life. I thought I had found that person—only to realize they were slowly, deliberately blowing out the light within me. There were moments when I felt completely drained by someone who was never good for me, and I let it happen because I didn’t have the courage to leave. I believed I loved them—and I did. At one point, I would have done anything for them, and that kind of love is dangerous when it’s given to the wrong person. I was willing to leave everything behind for someone who continued to hurt me. Maybe it was desperation. Maybe I just wanted to be loved so badly. But in the end, the brief illusion of love they gave me nearly destroyed my life. I was mentally exhausted. I stepped away from my education. I distanced myself from friendships. I became disconnected from everything and everyone around me. I don’t think the cycle would have ended until it finally did. I was cheated on twice—and deep down, I still believe it was three times. I once walked away for six months, but because my dating experiences during that time were so painful, I ran back. That was my mistake—being naïve enough to believe this man truly loved me. Now, I am endlessly grateful to have met an incredible woman who showed me that I deserve more than being dragged through the dirt. I know I’m not perfect. I know I have my own flaws, like everyone does. But I truly believe I deserve better—and I know I will find it. I hope she believes that too, because it’s the truth. To anyone who has experienced mental or emotional abuse and found it painfully difficult to leave: you are not alone. And you deserve so much better than what tried to break you.