Bea Lewis

In-laws, particularly mothers-in-law, I find, will often get their noses out of joint when their in-law children - particularly their daughters-in-law - don't give them the respect - or the honor - to call them MOM.

This topic came up recently at a talk I gave to the Lee Vassil Hadassah group in Lake Worth, Florida. 

"She calls me by my first name - Natalie - and I resent it,'' said the blonde-haired lady in the front row. "She should show me a little more respect,'' she said, referring to her daughter-in-law.

MMM, I thought - this is one angry lady. How do I answer - or even comment on her comment.

I didn't have to. Another woman, sitting in the back of the room, shot up her hand and responded. "You're making too many demands. What's the difference ? What's in a name?  Respect is how she treats you - not what she calls you.'' 

Others offered similiar comments. " If you get upset because she calls you by your first name and not MOM - count your blessings,'' said one woman. "She could call you something far worse  than calling you by your first name,'' said another. The group laughed.  Enough said.