(((Barb)))

I am so sorry to read about Ashley's latest issue with her boyfriend.

I am wondering if instead of talking about the cycle of abuse to Ashley which seems, to her, a bit preachy. How about a different approach?

Perhaps you might want to tell Ashley of your fears as a mother and want the very best for Ashley. I think it is also worthwhile to have a discussion about what self-worth and self-respect means to you--and how that informs your choices. As Ashley is young, she may think that you're telling her "what to do" and she may perceive your concerns as being against her boyfriend. Which is not the case at all. It is more about Ashley's self-worth and wanting to be with someone who respects her because she respects herself.

I remember my late father telling me that the most important thing to him was for me to be healthy and happy.

What do you think?

I cannot imagine having to deal with so many issues and trying to tackle them like a whack-a-mole machine. smile It's okay to have a good cry!