DEAR ABBY: I was dating a man for the past two years. Most of the time, we enjoyed being together. However, sometimes our discussions would turn into heated and hurtful arguments. He would disregard my point of view, ultimately shut me down and make me feel like the disagreement was my fault.

I finally broke free from a toxic relationship and wonder how I allowed his behavior to become acceptable. My bigger worry, though, is I may once again try to get back into his “good graces” How can I stay strong?