Denise, my wife’s mom, always made it clear that I wasn’t good enough for her son Jack. It was getting too much to deal with her constant putting down and rude statements. But she did something wrong yesterday.
Denise stomped into my job, which was in a fancy grocery store, and told me I had to pay for some expensive caviar. I could feel how much she wanted me to do it, but I wouldn’t give in.
I felt sick to my stomach as she set the two cans on the counter. It cost hundreds of dollars, which is a huge amount of money. I scanned them to act like I was following the rules, but my plan was already in motion.
As I hit the microphone button, I said, “Pay attention, shoppers! I’d like to welcome my mother-in-law Denise, who has asked me to pay for our best caviar. The store went crazy with cheers and clapping.
Denise stormed out of the room with the bag in her hands. Her face turned bright red. People at work and customers cheered, and I felt so happy.
Jack later asked me about what happened, so I told him what happened. He kept a laugh from coming out and told me, “I think she might leave us alone for a while.” He was right, too, because Denise hasn’t called us back since.
That moment made me feel free. I told her she wasn’t entitled to what she wanted and got back my self-respect. I would no longer put up with her abuse.
My story is a good lesson of how important it is to set limits. I stood up for myself because Denise’s behaviors were wrong. The result gave people power.
If you’re having the same problems with a family member who is too controlling, remember that you earn respect. Set up a line that no one can cross.
