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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 1 – Beginner)
Topic: In-Law(s) (05/08/08)
Can I tell the truth? I don’t want to be a mother-in-law! It sounds mean and hurtful, I suppose, especially because I am already a mother-in-law. But I don’t want to be a mother-in-law!

You are probably wondering, why?

First, I am a divorcee who has experience with a mother-in-law that began our relationship by informing me “I never would have chosen my son to marry someone like you.” Her first words have yet to heal, although the marriage has been long ago over.

My experience with in-laws has been what I’ve gleaned from television, a failed marriage and how I perceive my grand-daughter’s mother feels about me.

My experience affords me the following reasons:

• Mother-in-laws are the source of most debacles.

• Mother-in-laws are the butt of many jokes.

• Mother-in-laws are tormentors never invited but always appearing at the most inopportune moments.

• Mother-in-laws have conflicting opinions and make their children-in-law feel uncomfortable and at times unworthy.

• Mother-in-laws are shunned and unwanted at most important events.

• Mother-in-laws are entertained as a duty, but never loved sincerely.

• People in hell are usually seated next to their mother-in-laws.

• Mother-in laws say hurtful things without thinking, and never apologize for it.

According to my own understanding of mother-in-laws, life is better without them. I don’t want to be a mother-in-law!

On April 4, 2008, my son married Lyndsi. A strong, intelligent woman; she is not a mere accessory to my son. Their unity has made her a vital part of a whole. She is everything a mother would ask for her son.

A great sense of humor and a wonderful personality; we quickly got along tremendously. Her friendship means so much to me. She is sweet, kind, loving and beautiful inside and out. I am proud of her.

Lyndsi has gone out of her way to make me feel she wants me to be a part of her family. I feel welcomed, loved and cherished. In the short time, she has grafted into my heart as my own. I care for her as one of my children and pray for her safety continually…I love her very much.

I never want to torment her by appearing at an inopportune moment. I want her to see me, at the very least, as an understanding and loving friend who values her opinion. I don’t ever want her to feel anything less than my love for her. I want her to feel welcomed and cherished, for she truly is. Happily, I will include her in the important events of my life. Hopefully, she will want to include me in her and my son’s life.

I don’t ever want to say anything that will hurt her. I want to consider her always. And most of all, when I go to heaven, I want to save her a seat…I want my children to sit next to me! I love my daughter. It seems to me she is so much more than an in-law.
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This article has been read 819 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Debbie Wistrom
05/15/08
This should be published and awarded a ribbon.

The voice of your MC is believable and endearing, I hope it continues for many years to come.
Sara Harricharan
05/15/08
This is an excellent voice and exactly what we need to hear. I loved the format and the transparency here. Great job! ^_^
Kate Grey
05/16/08
This is a unique way to show a good point. Great title and great opening.
Marlene Austin
05/18/08
So glad your son gave you good reason not to have to be the mother-in-law you "listed". :)
Mary McLeary
05/19/08
I especially like the last paragraph. What a joy to love your children that much. That's what will make Heaven heavenly!
Edmond Ng
05/21/08
Understanding an in-law's shortcomings helps make one a better in-law when the time comes. You've done well in being an understanding MIL to a nice DIL.