No In-Laws, No Drama?

After yesterday's ceremony, I got to catch up with another lifelong close friend. We have known each other for more than 20 years (I've met her family, even her in-laws; she knew mine too), and while it had been a long time since we last met, the bond is still there.

She and my goddaughter (her eldest) spent a month in the States a few moons ago. She said it was to de-stress and to spend time with her sister and their Mom, but they came back home to more trouble caused by her in-laws.

I listened as she poured out her predicaments, narrating the verbal abuse and such. The father-in-law was very kind and treated them well (I met him too). But when he passed away years ago, the remaining family members exposed their true colors, escalating a dispute over a property her husband inherited (the land's title is in his name). My friend and her hubby started their own family there, built their own house, and even established a flourishing business on that same property.

While she was deeply hurt (and still is), she didn't stoop low to her in-laws' level. She remains steadfast, keeps her cool, and still tries to treat them civilly. So I openly acknowledged her character, admiring her inner strength and resolve. Her husband is reserved (doesn't talk much), but equally hurt and in utter disbelief that his own family ^{(the siblings whom he had financially supported while they were in school and his mother, whom he expected to step in and be the bridge between them)} is now trying to turn them into outcasts.

The in-law drama is so relatable—the devastating conflict and tension, the hurtful words—all heavy to the heart. The emotional trauma and damage are real and can devour one's sanity if not managed. But I have faith in my friend's resilience, and I had no advice to give, so I just tossed out the lighthearted humor: "The luckiest wife or husband in the world is the one with no in-laws," which made us laugh uncontrollably.

I guess only those who have similar experiences could find truth in that joke.😁

Anyway, time passed quickly, and before we knew it, evening came. So we hopped into our car and drove them (my friend, her sister, and spouse) to where they left their ride.