When done well, compromise can be such a good thing. It can strengthen friendships and help marriages. But when it's unbalanced, it can be so detrimental.
In a situation of emotional and verbal abuse, the victim gets to a point where there is almost never a time where they are not compromising to please their partner. It is not worth standing firm for what you want or think because the benefits of that decision are outweighed by the extreme consequences. Walking on eggshells becomes the norm. Good days are just days where nothing bad has happened...yet.
By the time we were separated, I honestly didn't remember how to be myself without this new compromised part of me. I am just getting back to that old Molly (she was actually the young Molly) now where I feel strong in my decisions and know that I have value. Not only that, but I know I have good ideas and am informed on life and relationships. The jabs of the past no longer hold that sting.
Thankful for the clarity that these months have brought to me. Thankful for counseling and protection so that true healing could occur. Thankful.