Just wanted to share...

I have been reading so many stories on here lately. I can honestly say that my own experience and realizing the struggles so many are going through have changed me.
I was with my N a total of a year and half. The past year has by far been the worst experience of my life. During that time, I was lied to, cheated on, constantly dealing with the most twisted mental abuse i can imagine, as well as physical and sexual abuse. The mental abuse and control he had was unbearable at times. There were days I felt i was barely living, days when I wondered if ending my life was the only way out of the nightmare I was in. I had pushed friends and family away. They knew I was in a "rocky" relationship but had no idea how bad it was. I am just now beginning to open up little by little about it.
Anyway, I had always heard the saying that you never know the battles others may enduring. It was a struggle but i went to work everyday, put on an act for friends, family and coworkers, while I was in so much pain. Many days I could barely make it to my car after work without bursting into tears from holding it in all day.
Now I look at people differently, Im far less judgmental ,more understanding and realize that you dont ever know what others are dealing with. So now when i encounter a snappy cashier, deal with an agitated employee, etc, I find I have more patience these days. Sometimes the smallest actions can make all the difference in the world to someone.
Two years ago, I never imagined I would be where I am now. Always said I would never put up with an abuser, cheating, lies, never understood why anyone would. I know now you can never judge or truly understand unless you have lived it yourself.
So before we are quick to judge, lose our patience, or get aggravated with someone, lets stop and take a minute to think they may be fighting their own battles...

I am so thankful for this forum and the amazing women sharing their stories! I am praying I come out of this experience a better person and this forum has been a blessing! Thank you all!