The article reflects on the often invisible signs of domestic abuse, recounting a personal experience in a weight room where the author confronts a past abuser. The narrative highlights the manipulation involved in abusive relationships, particularly how they can start without visible signs of violence. The author, recalling their teenage years, emphasizes the lack of understanding regarding the dynamics of control and coercion they faced, suggesting a broader societal issue regarding awareness and definition of abuse. The story concludes with a poignant realization as the author recognizes the cycle of abuse continues with new victims.
I was still in my teens when I became a part of that statistic. My abuser was an adult with charisma, attention, and a disturbing knack for manipulating the naive.
I didn’t have the language to call it abuse. I just thought I was special-mature for my age, chosen by someone older who could guide me.
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