Domestic abuse is a term Elena never thought, in a million years, she would ever be able to apply to her personal life. She is a smart, educated woman.

Independent, strong, and confident, and could never understand how a woman would stay in a relationship with a man that was hurting her or - worse - hurting her children. But she was that woman.

For 10 years, Elena was married to a man that belittled, degraded, isolated her. .

. and hit her children.

There are many other women that have been in similar situations, and situations so much worse than hers, whether they lasted less than a year or more than 30. They are all a part of a club they never wanted to join: domestic abuse.

This is not a story meant to draw tears to your eyes or well up pity in your heart. This is a story of faith, strength, and perseverance.

This is a story to help break down the stereotypes and misconceptions of what "kind of woman" ends up in a situation like Elena's, and how there is a loving Savior who desires healing and grace for our lives. This is not a pretty story (domestic abuse never is) but hang in there as you travel with Elena through the ashes of abuse into the beauty of God's freedom.

Discover how you (or someone you know) can find freedom and healing through Christ; of how He can restore your soul. If you are in or have escaped domestic abuse, take heart, friend: You will be sane.

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