I’m Going To Lose My Temper

Q: I’ve been happily married five years now to a wonderful woman, but we have a problem that keeps getting worse. My father-in-law is a blowhard who needs to dominate every conversation. Whatever the subject, he interjects himself into the discussion and tries to make it all about him. My family has stopped coming to visit when they know he’s going to be here. My wife is sympathetic to my plight but doesn’t want to get involved. I fear that at a family dinner in the near future,
I’m going to lose my temper and tell him off. Solutions?

Mia: Your father-in-law must be kept in check. First off, his time at your home should be limited. Can your wife restrict his visits to once a week at the maximum? And there’s no reason you always have to be there when he visits. Could your wife sometimes go see her parents without you? That might ease your aggravation.

Steve: While Mia’s suggestions are good ones, I think your wife is ducking things a bit here. Tell her that she should discuss this with her dad (or her mom, who may have some ideas on how to help). If she doesn’t, tell her you will.