“Setting Boundaries with My Mother-in-Law”…R/Mother In Laws From Hell

I read this story on Reddit about a woman navigating her relationship with her mother-in-law after getting married. Initially, the relationship seemed promising; her mother-in-law was caring and welcoming. However, as time passed, the dynamic shifted, and small issues began piling up, testing her patience and boundaries.

One recurring issue was her mother-in-law’s constant nagging in the kitchen. Despite helping with chores, she was frequently criticized for how she washed rice or completed tasks. Over time, her mother-in-law started leaving her to handle all the work while going out to visit family or friends, showing little consideration for her time or responsibilities.

The woman also found herself pressured into following certain religious customs. At first, she accepted these practices out of respect and a desire to adjust, but it became overbearing when her mother-in-law insisted she adhere to these rituals repeatedly. Things came to a head when her mother-in-law would interfere in personal matters, like giving her husband food without ensuring there was enough for everyone or asking for things indirectly through him instead of speaking to her.

The final straw was when her husband intervened on her behalf after she shared her concerns about the constant nagging and interference. Though her mother-in-law initially agreed to stop, she made a passive-aggressive comment during a family dinner, implying that her complaints were exaggerated and even joking about going into politics because of how much she supposedly “nagged.”

After this, the woman’s husband spoke to his mother again, leading to a noticeable change in her behavior. Now, her mother-in-law barely speaks to her, only discussing necessary things like kitchen chores or asking if she’s eaten. Surprisingly, the woman finds this new arrangement more tolerable, as it means less interference and nagging in her daily life.

“Out of respect, and thinking it wouldn’t be a big deal, I went along with it and used the phrases. However, you’re right no one should be forced to do something they’re uncomfortable with. I’m grateful that my partner understands and supports me in this.”

It’s a story of setting boundaries and finding a balance, even in the face of passive resistance. Despite the challenges, she’s finding her peace in a healthier dynamic.