Ah mother-in-laws. They really do get a bad rap.
Movies and sitcoms characterise the mother-in-law as overbearing and obnoxious.
They barge in and clean your house (…why is anyone complaining) before offering completely unsolicited parenting advice. There’s even a sub-par movie named ‘Monster-in-Law’.
But real life mothers-in-law are far more complex. There are great ones. There are some that drive you mad. There are some that have awful taste in decor, yet inundate you with rugs/vases/wall hangings. There are some that buy your children 14 presents every time they drop in.
Of course, none of us would ever say any of these things to our mother-in-law directly. No good would come of that.
Instead, watch the Mamamia staff confess their deepest most private thoughts about their partner’s mother, before we graciously accept yet another God-awful gift.
Top Comments
To my own mother
'I love you but your behaviour is extremely damaging. You have an undiagnosed personality disorder, which has impacted upon you your entire life, especially upon your close relationships. I understand that this is difficult for you, however my partner, myself and the family we plan cannot have contact with you, or allow you in our lives until you willingly see a doctor, get professional help from a psychologist or psychiatrist and take medication to control your impulsive outbursts, rages, threats and abuse. I am saying this because I care about you, and want to to get better.'
I wish I had the guts to say no to the old brass bed that rocked up to my house unannounced yesterday. Apparently we want it because it had a family history.