When my husband and I were newlyweds, I struggled in my relationship with my mother-in-law. I was oversensitive and felt intimidated by her. After our sweet daughter was born, everything that was already under the surface bubbled to the top. I spent so much energy being offended and annoyed that I was exhausted!
Then I heard you talk about the things I could do to make our interactions less tense. I realized that the mother-in-law relationship was another opportunity for me to be my husband’s girlfriend! While we were dating, I never said anything negative about his mother or his family, and I did my best to make a good impression. I could certainly repeat that behavior now.
Once I tried it out, I felt happier, lighter, and able to shake off the things that would normally get under my skin. And instead of spending my time being intimidated, I spent my energy being sweet. It made me feel more loving toward my mother-in-law, and I still feel that way almost ten years later.
Katherine
My Mother-In-Law Annoyed Me