when he sees you standing up for yourself, independent, strong, and happy
This was me when we met. The years of disrespect and emotional/mental abuse have taken their toll on me. I am still fairly independent and strong, but it is hard to stand up for myself and be happy right now at home. I can still be those things in other settings.
When I recently stood up for myself with him he made a remark something to the effect that he sure hoped my humming bird a$$ could back up my alligator mouth. Nice, I know.
I do believe he will see things differently, and his friends do as well. It is still hard while we are living together.
M44 H57 D17 (special needs) M 18 yrs Bomb 7/2/12 Still living together