This is the story of how I became trapped in an emotionally abusive marriage, and how I eventually found the courage and strength to escape. I am an educated, intelligent, independent woman. I never thought it could happen to me. Through the years of abuse I gradually lost myself, as my boundaries collapse, one by one. I came close to complete self-destruction, and almost gave in to despair. I know why women commit suicide, or homicide. They just want the pain to stop.With the help of one woman friend who understood, I survived, and slowly climbed out of the trap into which I had fallen. Let my story show you that you are not alone; there are many of us out there. I hope my tale will inspire you to find your own path out of darkness. It can be done. -Eve Strongheart