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safe and secure. If you are actually afraid of your partner, how could it be the relationship you once envisioned? No woman deserves to the physically, sexually or emotional assaulted in her own home and this just might be the right time to leave. You are not going to be able to change him no matter how hard you try and odds are he will not change himself.

If you answered, "Yes" to any of these questions, you probably are not living in a normal relationship and you must understand that even though there is no violent behavior occurring right now, the potential for violence is very high.

Domestic violence hurts you directly, but it also has a devastating affect on those around you who care about you, but may feel totally helpless.

If you are in an abusive relationship and want to be free of it, there is hope and there is help available to you. The violence is not your fault and you are definitely not alone.

If you are doing research on the internet, please be very careful. People with no technical skills can trace the sites you have visited. It might be a good idea to use the computer at your local library or at a friend's house.

There is National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and every state has a coalition against domestic violence. Most coalitions have a 24-hour hotline to help you find assistance in your local area. Don't hesitate to call them if you feel you need help.

Many communities have safe houses to provide you with a place to live and many have counseling and job placement services to help you get back on your feet.

It should not be an embarrassment to admit you are a victim of domestic violence. Some 4 Million women across the United States are experiencing exactly what you are going through. Leaving a violent relationship takes planning and a tremendous amount of courage. If you are living in violence, it will only escalate over time, so why not ask for help and start the healing process and be the person God intended you to be.

Sources: Life's New Beginnings, National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, U. S. Department of Justice

Learn more about this author, Ken Bradford.
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