Black Eye or Love?

Growing up in violence was normal to me. I didn’t like it, but it was my reality. So no surprise here when I got into an abusive relationship in high school. Here’s a little secret, I didn’t know I was in an abusive relationship until I was a in college. I normalized every aspect of that relationship. I am not going to get detailed with this story right now, but here is what I want you to know.

"Love is NOT VIOLENT"

As far as dating goes, know the signs/indicators:

Wants to know your every move
Keeps you away from family/friends
Tries to control you with money
Threatens to… threatens you period!
Name calling
Shaming
Forces you to do things (Anything!)
Constantly lies
Hits/ chokes/ smacks/ shakes/ kicks you
Intimidates or uses scare tactics

Pay attention to these signs and get out early. My hope is that you notice the signs before you even get in an abusive relationship. So remember to ask yourself, is this relationship love or a lie that could lead to a black eye.