1/ When we are in abusive relationships, there is often a deep longing that the abuser will wake up, realize our value and end the abuse.

That day almost never comes...

We regain safety by seeing our inherent dignity and taking actions to protect ourselves from the abuse

2/ We also need to go no contact with that abusive person, because they often try to keep us chained up with verbal abuse like:
- the world outside is a dangerous place
- you're dangerous to other people.
- I know what's best for you
- You need me. You can't look after yourself

3/ Healthy parents and partners respect the autonomy of their loved ones and encourage them to make their own decisions, rather than encouraging helplessness.
- we need to surround ourselves with people who love and respect us, our freedom and our inherent dignity