The article discusses a woman's struggle with her mother-in-law, who openly expresses negative opinions about her. Despite attempts to cultivate a positive relationship, the mother-in-law's insults and disdain have led to avoidance and frustration. The woman finds her mother-in-law's remarks about wishing she could choose her sonâs wife particularly hurtful. Miss Manners advises using humor and cliches to deflect the negativity and navigate social situations gracefully, while also considering her husband's feelings in the process of managing the relationship.
"Next time someone tells you your mother-in-law has said she wished she could have chosen her son's wife, smile and say you've heard her say that before..."
"I have tried to be polite and welcoming, to encourage familial bonds and to find some way to make her happy, but nothing I have done has ever been right."
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