Tell Me About It: Mother wishes he'd die, but wants him to 'friend' her

Question:

I have been dating a wonderful, kind, generous, and caring man for almost seven years. For whatever reason, my mother harbors resentment for my partner, and has said she wishes he'd suffer a heart attack and die, among other less-than-friendly sentiments. We see my mother only a handful of times per year, and my partner is cordial to her but relieved when it is time to go.

A few months ago, my mother called me and asked why my partner refused to accept her friend request on Facebook. I deferred and told her she'd have to ask him, figuring she'd drop the subject. Big mistake. The next time we saw her, she demanded that my partner friend her!

Would my partner and I be better served fighting this battle, or saving our strength for possibly larger future conflicts (marriage, children, etc.)?

Answer: "Mom, when you wish people dead, you can't expect them to friend you on Facebook." The sooner you start telling your mom the truth when she crosses lines, the better your outlook gets for "(marriage, children, etc.)."

Q: My older brother has always been outspoken and often interrupts others in group settings. He likes to be the storyteller and center of attention. In the past, this has gotten me quite angry and I would try to show him how domineering he was. I have failed to plant the seeds of empathy, and have accepted him as he is. That is family.

However, I get along well with his wife. At a family event a year ago, she confessed after a drink that she knew the first years of marriage could be tough, but she didn't expect it to be that bad.

Recently, I had lunch with her, and asked if things were going better. She implied yes, but said he still ignorantly instructs her on, for example, things she could do while he goes for a run.

I encouraged her to stand up for herself while acknowledging that my own suggestions had not borne fruit.

I'm worried he'll lose a wonderful influence on his life without knowing how it happened. Is there anything I can say to my brother on being less domineering in his marriage, or am I just sticking my nose where it doesn't belong?

A: No, there's no magic words that will rewrite your brother into someone likable, and yes, you're sticking your nose where it doesn't belong.

You also know you're sweet on his wife, yes?

That in itself is not a problem; it happens, it's natural, and she probably is as special as you imply. But it will be a problem, huge, if you succumb to the temptation to put on your Relationship Man cape and get involved in their marriage. Don't do it.