I have been away from my abusive relationship now for almost 2 years, but I was in it for 10! Everyone asks me why I would stay with a man who would hit a woman? It is an answer that I am still searching for. This man told me that no one would want me, and that I was fat and ugly. He told me this over and over that of course I believed it. I starved myself to a size 2 and dressed and cut my hair the way he liked it. He took away my identity and I became a puppet on a string. I made no move without asking what he thought first. I finally got the courage to leave after I saw this abuse affecting our son. Please do not stay with some one who wants to control you. I know it is hard to get out, but be confident in yourself and take the first steps to be safe. I did and I am proud to be in control of my own life.