Transforming patterns of verbal abuse for the sake of our children

My friendship with this gentle and intelligent woman spans decades. For most of her 10-year-long marriage, I assumed that all was well. It wasn’t. Like many women -- and men -- caught in the drama of a verbally abusive relationship, struggles are often experienced in shameful silence. When children witness these struggles, we are obligated to examine the cost, seek out needed healing and offer prompt support.