A woman and her future daughter-in-law are having a serious disagreement after an unexpected encounter. This situation has caused a rift between the woman and her son.
In a post on Reddit in 2023, a 48-year-old woman shared the unfortunate breakdown of her relationship with her future daughter-in-law following a certain incident. The Original Poster (OP) shared the story of her son, who, at the age of 22, was preparing to marry his long-time partner whom he had been with since they were 20.
“I’ve always admired her. She’s intelligent, she effortlessly blends in with our family, she’s ambitious, and most importantly, she brings joy to my son’s life.” According to OP, things were going smoothly until they decided to get engaged.
The OP mentioned that her passion for jewelry began in childhood and grew into a collection as she entered adulthood. She would personally create the designs and reach out to her loved ones for their support in acquiring them. She also used her disposable income to get whatever ring she wanted. OP mentioned, “I didn’t purchase one every year, but gradually I’ve accumulated a lovely assortment of rings. I absolutely adore a sapphire surrounded by a dazzling halo of diamonds, an emerald elegantly placed in a trilogy with 1ct diamonds on each side, and a Ruby beautifully showcased in a pavé band.”
After detailing her passion for jewelry, OP proceeded to discuss the issues that arose between her and her future daughter-in-law. OP extended a warm invitation to her son and his future spouse to join her for a delightful dinner at her home, celebrating their recent engagement.
During the visit, the daughter-in-law requested a private conversation with OP. Initially, she felt a sense of concern, assuming that something significant happened. The DIL mentioned that she had admired her mother-in-law’s emerald ring over the years and had developed a desire to own one as well.
The OP shared: “She mentioned that I don’t wear it very often, which is true, and insisted that I give it to her as a special engagement ring.” According to the OP, the DIL was making additional demands on top of the wedding gifts and expenses that had already been discussed as a family, which included gold worth over $7,000. “This really bothered me, and I have to admit that I accused her of attempting to go through my belongings before I’ve even passed away,” stated OP. She firmly asserted her ownership of the ring to her daughter-in-law, emphasizing that it was her prerogative to sell it even on her deathbed. OP said her DIL had no right to expect that it be given to her and was “being a rude brat by demanding it.” She shared that her daughter-in-law raised her voice, expressing her belief that this cherished item should not be sold, but rather passed down as a family heirloom. As per the DIL, it is quite common for heirlooms to be handed down even while the owner is still alive. However, OP advised her to leave the house if her sole purpose was to get her belongings. Following this, the younger woman angrily left with her future spouse. OP mentioned that her daughter-in-law is upset with her after they had a disagreement.
In addition, her son supported his fiancée’s perspective and expressed that his mother could have given the ring to her as a kind gesture to embrace her into the family. According to OP’s son, the act would be just like when his sister sometimes borrows her jewelry pieces. Surprisingly, OP’s husband and daughter are supportive, while her son’s recent behavior has caught her off guard. She mentioned that the DIL already possesses a stunning and luxurious engagement ring, clarifying that it is not a scenario where she lacks an engagement ring entirely.
Redditors are in agreement with the original poster that the jewelry rightfully belongs to her and should continue to be in her possession. According to one individual, if the DIL has a strong desire for an emerald ring, they suggested that she consider trading her engagement ring and having a custom-designed one made to her liking.
What are your thoughts on the situation where OP decided to ask her DIL to leave after their argument? If you found yourself in OP’s situation, what actions would you take?