I'm sorry to hear that you had to go through such a difficult situation. It's important to address conflicts in a healthy and respectful manner. Deciding whether to continue communication with your mother-in-law is a personal choice, but it's crucial to approach the situation thoughtfully. Here are some steps to consider:
Take some time to cool off: Emotions can be high after such an incident, so it's essential to give yourself time to calm down and gain some perspective.
Communicate with your husband: Have a conversation with your husband about what happened and how you feel. It's essential to understand his perspective and see if he can offer any insights into his mother's behavior. Express your concerns about how he handled the situation.
Set boundaries: If you decide to maintain communication with your mother-in-law, it's crucial to set clear boundaries. Let her know that you expect to be treated with respect and that any form of aggression or disrespect is unacceptable.
Consider seeking external support: If you and your husband find it challenging to resolve the issue on your own, consider seeking the help of a family therapist or counselor. They can facilitate productive communication and provide tools for dealing with conflicts effectively.
Focus on your well-being: Prioritize your mental and emotional well-being. If interacting with your mother-in-law is causing significant distress, it's okay to limit your contact with her or take a break for a while.
Evaluate the overall relationship: Reflect on the overall dynamics of your relationship with your mother-in-law. Consider whether her behavior is part of a pattern of disrespect or if it was an isolated incident.
Forgive and let go: Holding on to resentment can be harmful to your own mental health. If you choose to continue communication with your mother-in-law, try to find a way to forgive and let go of past grievances. This doesn't mean forgetting what happened, but rather finding a way to move forward in a healthy manner.
Seek support from friends and family: Talk to friends or other family members who can offer understanding and support during this difficult time.
Ultimately, the decision to continue or limit communication with your mother-in-law is up to you. It's essential to prioritize your well-being and maintain healthy boundaries in any relationship. If the situation becomes too toxic or harmful, it might be necessary to distance yourself from the negativity.