If you are in a relationship with someone who has hurt you, feel betrayed, and have trauma related to the assault, it can be tempting to stay in the relationship.
But it's important to remember that it’s not your responsibility to save your partner from their abusive behavior. You can choose to love, forgive, and stay in the relationship while you work on getting stronger and recovering from abuse.
If you decide to leave an abusive relationship, it can be helpful to receive support from others and find a healthy way to deal with your feelings. Many abuse survivors are driven to isolate themselves or are reluctant to reach out for help, but there are many communities that provide support and resources. Remember, the decision to forgive is entirely yours and should be made in consultation with others who can help support you.
When you know that someone has hurt you, it can be incredibly difficult to forgive that person. Despite the pain and anger you are feeling, it can also be tempting to blame them for your current situation. It’s not easy to let go of resentment, shame, and anger, but if you are willing to take the first step toward forgiveness, it can free up more of the emotional energy that you need to begin your healing process.
Remember, if you are able to forgive the person who has hurt you, that means that you are no longer carrying that anger, resentment, and pain in your heart. That means you have opened yourself up to experience the love, support, and acceptance you deserve in this module.