So many times it has been stated, sticks and stones can break your bones, but words can never hurt you. How wrong can that be? A lot of women know how it feels to be on the receiving end of hurtful demoralising words and even though we cringe at a raised fist or feel its force nothing can compare to years of verbal abuse. The feeling of self-worth over the years waned to an all-time low. The only light at the end of the tunnel and for most women the repercussions too much to contemplate. Helen found that courage with the help of a friend, she reached out amongst the small community that had been her home for the last twenty-six years. Sometimes not sure if she could carry on living in the same village. With the endless love of her young boys, she found the courage. The spiteful words of her mother-in-law cut deep to the bone and freedom came at a high price. For Helen, the light at the end of the tunnel glowed more powerful with each passing day. When she believes the worst to be over and love was on the horizon fate dealt another blow. The threatening declaration of an ex-boyfriend began to scathe her chances of love and the light at the end of the tunnel looked further in the distance. Helen knew this was only one more obstacle to climb and with all the strength she possessed she would finally be free to love again.