I married Phil at age 22. I was young, thought I was in love. We did all of the pre-marriage things such as picking china, silver, cookware. I should have noticed that his Mom never warmed up to the idea. I was young.
So, we got married. And it went downhill from there. It actually started on our honeymoon. We went skiing in Killington, VT. I had never skied before so signed up for lessons. He had been on the UConn ski team.
At the end of day five of my lessons he wanted us to do a downhill run. I got scared early and opted to take the ski car down. He was furious.
He stayed furious for the three years we were married. So much so that in a fit of rage he sprained our cat’s tail by jerking it. Fortunately the cat was ok.
He took his rage and anger out on me every day. Putting me down, smacking me, belittling me.
I had an abscessed tooth on New Years Eve. I was writhing in pain. He laughed and said I deserved it.
As young as I was I woke up. I gathered up my guts and told him to get out. He lunged at me and you know what? I slammed him with a broom. And I connected. He left.
A few years later he called me, asking to have lunch so he could apologize. I agreed. He did apologize. And I no longer cared. Because I had found me!
I have never let go of that woman I came to know that day. Because I am me, worthwhile, caring, talented, smart, capable, loving, an animal advocate, a registered nurse, a friend, a lover.
I am blessed now to have been married to Persiflage for over 28 years. My best friend, lover, everything. We adore and revere each other. We are so fortunate.
It seems to be a day/evening of catharsis, as I said. This is mine. What I treasure is what Donald Trump will never have. Love and respect for who you are, who you truly are.
How sad. Not for me, I’m blessed beyond words.
For his family. I am so happy not to be a party to that.