20x26 Pastel on Paper

Artist's Note: While talking to this survivor, I learned what an unbelievably sweet, responsible, and smart person she is, which boggles my mind how anyone could be cruel to her. Abusers always take advantage of a person's good nature because they know with post-abuse apologies, she/he will forgive the episode and believe the promises that "it won't ever happen again." Many times a survivor is surprised to find his/herself in an abusive relationship because of this trust. That's why it's important to never judge but listen and support efforts to a better life.