Dear Roe,
Over the past three years, I have struggled with a domineering and manipulative mother-in-law. To outsiders, my husband’s family appears perfect, united and happy. However, from my perspective, they operate like a cult, with my mother-in-law as the leader, always having the final say. Their constant griping reveals their envy of anyone who seems happier or more successful than they are. Initially I got along well with my in-laws by staying quiet. Over time I became more selective about attending and participating in family events. This shift did not go down well, and their attitude towards me changed dramatically. My husband and I were suddenly labelled as “sensitive” if we raised any issues. Recently I wad belittled by my mother-in-law and sister-in-law. This was the final straw after years of subtle digs and isolation. When my husband raised it with her, she immediately flew into a rage, shouting obscenities at me. She acted like a toddler, throwing herself on the ground and dramatically begging for forgiveness. This is not the first time she has behaved this way. She never admits any wrongdoing and instead gaslights everyone, convincing them that I am the problem an
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