The thing that astounds me is why a DVO is needed in the first place. Why does somebody have to go to court to get a piece of paper stating their ex is not allowed to hurt them? Why will the police not even entertain turning up unless you have that paper, and probably won't even if you do? Is signing a marriage certificate also signing away your rights to safety and a green light to your partner that they have the right to do whatever they wish with no consequences? Something is broken.

This is very similar to my own story. 

@michael if this guy walked up to your mum, sister, wife or daughter in the street and smashed a wine glass into their face, would you have the same attitude? 

This sounds like my life. I was feeling really sorry for myself today. I've cried several times. I just wanted you to know that I understand and I wish you the best.

You keep calling her your dear friend, yet you abandoned her. When she finally gets the strength to leave, who will be there to help her?

Thank you for discussing this. My son was the same. It went on for 12 months until I found a doctor that could help. I didn't have a supportive husband. I had just moved to a new city and was all alone. It was traumatic. Heart breaking trauma. Thank you for helping me to see clearer how traumatic it was.

Exactly. I also think that purchasing meat from a supermarket has made us not think about the fact that an animal has been killed to give us the meat. And how many of you are wearing leather shoes.

I was most surprised when you said your blood boiled because you weren't offered help and had to refuse help to another. Maybe you should try considering those in an actual difficult situation where no help is given and see how you feel then. Such as those with chronic illness, lonely elderly or a single parent with no familial support. Go and volunteer at a soup kitchen, this should mature you.

Wow, I think that is completely extreme. Were you not able to teach your child about personal safety and trusting their gut instinct? What happened when he went out by himself?