When Maria first came to America from Italy, she hoped that some day she would live the American dream. She thought she found her happiness when she met and married Michael. Instead, over the years, she became a battered woman. After many years and four daughters later, things changed for the better. She has now made a new life for her and her daughters. They had little problems starting their new life together without Michael, but now they have more happiness as they raise their families and enjoy each other.