Cathy, that 'dark period' in your life is now over. You must view it as merely a learning-curve.
Yes, things did become bitter and nasty, but i think that you have grown to be stronger and more determined.
Cathy, you have not let the 'bad choices' you made in the past, control your future. That is a true testament to the amazingly-positive and strikingly-inspirational person that you have always been.
Peace.