A battered husband

Dear Tita,

I was taught by my parents that a man should never hit a woman, and I followed this principle all throughout my life.

When I married Gina, I thought she was really a sweet and wonderful woman. After a few months, I got the shock of my life when I found out her true character. Gina was a spoiled brat as she is an only child. Her parents doted on her and gave her anything she wanted. They could afford to do this as they have money.

The first time we met, I was immediately attracted to her beauty and vivacious personality. But when I found out who her parents were, I was intimidated as I have no wealth, being a school teacher with a small salary. Gina would keep on calling me and inviting me to go out with her friends. She probably was challenged by my reluctance to go out with them. Finally, I told her I had nothing to offer her, and that she might as well forget me. It didn't discourage her at all and she kept finding ways so we could be together. When her parents found out about our relationship, they objected vehemently but Gina refused to give me up.

Finally, they relented and agreed to our marrying. I was hesitant at first because I was so unprepared, but Gina assured me everything would be alright.

We stayed at her parents' house as my salary wasn't enough for us to rent a nice place. It was very difficult for me living with her parents. What made it more difficult was Gina's spoiled ways. If she didn't get what she wanted, she would throw a tantrum and we would fight. Our spats got worse and worse until she became violent and would scratch my face and arms with her long nails. I tried to hide this from my co-workers but they could see what was happening. One day, she threw a heavy chair at me and I almost landed in the hospital.

I never laid a hand on her and I am suffering humiliation and physical violence from my wife. Should I leave her?

BATTERED HUSBAND

Dear Battered Husband,

I'm surprised you didn't leave her a long time ago. No one can blame you if you do decide to leave. Marriage doesn't give anyone the right to abuse their spouse. Gina is so spoiled that she thinks she can get away with anything.

It's time you have a serious talk and tell her how you feel. If you think things would be better for you if you leave, then it's a free country. Good luck.

TITA