How to get Along With Your Mother-in-law

A full time mother is part of an adult’s past. This doesn’t mean that quality time can’t be spent together anymore, but it won’t be full time. A full time spouse is part of an adult’s future. This doesn’t mean that they can’t spend quality time with their parents, together or alone.

Mutual respect as adults, acceptance and tolerance, and keeping your mouth shut are the keys to a happy in-law relationship. Always remember, you love the same person. Jealousy and insecurity in any relationship is unattractive. However, the closest relationships are usually the parent and child, and spouses' relationships. When there is no effort to get along, the mutual loved one is hurt the most. Think about that. That being said, there are times when boundaries need to be set, but this can be done with calm, thoughtful discussion. Using nice words, a nice tone, and an understanding of the feelings of the other party should prove to be beneficial when there is an issue that needs to be addressed.

Mother needs to understand that when her child is grown, the majority of her job is done (unless her opinion or advice is solicited). The new spouse needs to understand that the chosen partner has parent(s) that have nurtured and rode that child raising roller coaster for years. It’s not easy to just give that up.

*We were having tea with my mother-in-law the other day and out of the blue she said, “I’ve decided I want to be cremated.” I said, “Alright, get your coat.” iamstaggered.com

*How many mothers-in-law does it take to change a light bulb?
One. She just holds it up there and waits for the world to revolve around her. iamstaggered.com

*What are the two worst things about your mother-in-law?
Her faces. iamstaggered.com

*First man: “My mother-in-law is an angel.” Second man: “You’re lucky fella, mine’s still alive. iamstaggered.com

*A man, his wife and his mother-in-law went on vacation to the Holy Land. While they were there, the mother-in-law passed away. The undertaker told them, ‘You can have her shipped home for £5,000, or you can bury her here in the Holy Land for £150.’

The man thought about it and told him he would just have her shipped home. The undertaker asked, ‘Why would you spend £5,000 to ship your mother-in-law home, when it would be wonderful to have her buried here and spend only £150?’

The man replied, ‘a man died here 2,000 years ago, was buried here, and three days later he rose from the dead. I just can’t take that chance.’ iamstaggered.com

Let me begin by saying I have a terrific Mother-in-law. She is kind and nonjudgmental. She doesn’t interfere with any decisions my husband and I make. Spending time with her is always a delight, and we always have a good time together. My mother-in-law is more of a friend than anything. She loves her son enough to allow him to live his life and make his own decisions. She loves her son, and I love him too.

I am a mother-in-law. I understand how it feels to “give up” your child to another woman. Although, in reality, we all know that doesn’t happen. My daughter-in-law is a wonderful young woman with beauty and intelligence in abundance. I couldn’t have chosen a better mate for my son. I love my son enough to allow him to live his life and make his own decisions. He loves his wife, and I love her too.

I certainly hope you have enjoyed this article, and I pray there was lots of laughter.

"Be kind to one another" ~ Ellen

God Bless You ~ Margaret Sullivan