Over the years that I've been married, my mother-in-law has kept a polite distance when it comes to offering too much advice in regards to the life my husband and I lead together. In the rare times that she has had something to say, it has always been done with meekness and an attitude that does not make us defensive. It is very easy, because of how she has respected our privacy, to actually share with her and seek her opinion about issues that come up from time to time.
My mother-in-law has treated me like a queen! She has taught me how to make someone feel special-whether it is in buying me a new outfit I would not buy for myself, or in seeing a need I have and not just buying the basics, but buying the best, or more than I really needed. My mother-in-law is not wealthy when it comes to money, but she so easily gives away to others what she could have easily spent on herself for her own needs.
Much more could be said, but the last thing I'll mention is that my mother-in-law respects how my husband and I choose to raise our children. I know of so many people whose in-laws counter them with each and every decision they make in regards to the grandchildren. I know that when I leave my children with my mother-in-law, that she will respect our wishes with how they are cared for.
In the years I've known my mother-in-law, I have learned from her to be a more giving person. I appreciate the relationship I have with her, and make sure to tell her so in an occasional card, letter, or when we're speaking in person. I pray that I can be as sweet of a mother-in-law to my own son and daughter's spouses as my mother-in-law is to me. I certainly have a great example to follow!
Copyright 2009 The Munchkins and Me
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