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The May issue of Reader’s Digest has an article entitled, “25 More Things Your Mother-in-Law Won't Tell You,” which features tips from my soon to be released book, What’s a Mother (in-Law) To Do?
In addition to the tips, which you can read at http://www.rd.com/living-healthy/25-more-things-your-motherinlaw-wont-tell-you/article126486.html, daughters-in-law have added some of their own. I selected five of them to whet your appetite for more:
- Your son has fiscal, emotional and physical responsibilities as a husband and as a father of small children. We need him to put us first. But that doesn't automatically make you unimportant or obsolete.
- You spent a couple decades being the leading lady... dealing with your own mother-in-law. You've told me the stories. I guess it's easy to forget how the old shoes fit once you're in new ones. When I get criticism from my own mother, I can fight back and defend myself. But in your case, I have to keep my mouth zipped or my husband will get mad at me for disrespecting you.
- Please don't come into our home and take over. I may do some things differently than you do, but it works for us and it's OUR house. There is a new woman in your son's life. ASK before taking action - PLEASE.
- If I don't ask for your advice, it's because I truly don't feel I need it. It isn't a personal affront to you . . . I usually don't ask for my mom's advice - or my dad's advice, or my sister's advice . . .etc. Today there are TONS of various sources from which people can find out things they want to know and learn how to do things they need to do. I also enjoy reading and I enjoy a challenge - so sometimes, I really do prefer to learn something on my own. It really isn't about you at all.
- Thank you for the son you've entrusted to me. You did a wonderful job showing him how to love and respect me. Forgive me for not telling you how much I appreciate this.
Have you got some more? If so, send them along to me at jangelich@gmail.com.
Talk to you soon.
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