In-laws have been the brunt of comical jokes; a source for songwriters and an easy target for movies like "Monster-In-Law. Portrayed by Jane Fonda, she gave the audience a vivid picture of someone who was unbearable and manipulative.
I've heard horror stories from friends and family members whose own mothers-in-law subjected them to ridicule and open hostility. I adore my mother-in-law. My special name for her is, Granny Mom.
Long before I fell in love with my husband, Dave, I fell in love with her first. I thought if he had only half of her many qualities, he'd be perfect. Of course, back then, I didn't realize he'd also have half of his father's characteristics. (Just kidding).
I've learned a lot from this genteel soft-spoken Southern lady. She never says anything unkind and has taught me tolerance and commitment. Her mantra has been: "I may not always like my husband, but I will always be in-love with him." She is the personification of a devoted wife and mother; self-sacrificing and unselfish and placing everyone else's needs above her own.
She can discuss sensitive topics with intelligence and tact. Even at 89 years old, she has an open mind and a desire to learn as much as she can. Her mind is as sharp as a tack; her heart still tender and though her body is now frail and weak, she finds strength to carry her husband's coffee to him every morning on a tray.
Because of her, our dinner table is filled with animated conversation and sometimes heated debates. You would love to be a fly on the wall, hearing her and her son going back and forth. She is a strong Democrat and my husband listens to Rush. Need I say more?
She has been such a comfort to me; tolerant of my faults and sincerely loving me in spite of them. Without fail, she is gracious and compassionate and always makes me feel appreciated.
The truth is, whatever I've given her, she has given it back ten-fold. I've been blessed in having this beautiful soul in my life.
I don't know many people who can claim to have an Angel-In-Law.
No comments:
Post a Comment