Spousal Abuse
Abuse - such a tragedy to have happen in any family. Abuse can be loud and obvious through physical harm or it can just as easily quiet and insidious through emotional mistreatment. In every way it tears families apart, leaving everyone broken and hurt.

A mother in one of my groups is in such a relationship, pregnant with her second child. Her love for her husband and son are so strong, yet she is being torn apart emotionally. Her spouse has a terrible temper and she is often the brunt... though not physically. She is always left emotionally devastated after every rage, feeling worthless, believing every word. Ultimately her spouse will come bearing gifts, a show of love for her, the only way her spouse knows how.

Family counseling is not an option, refused outright by her spouse. How can this be anything but her fault? The blame is placed on mistrust from past relationships. The result is control of her every move, who she sees and what she does. How incredibly sad to see the toll it places on this young woman as she struggles to be a mother and loving partner, who is now turning her emotions inwards, affecting her sleep and health.

This leaves the women in our group, the only ones she feels comfortable sharing her difficult secret with, to support her. Pray she receives the guidance and strength to do what she needs to do for her health and safety.