HaveHope, how I can relate to your feelings.

Am surrounded by family who seem to think it's fun to belittle someone for having different interests/opinions to their own. My mother thinks it's fine to keep repeating the mantra "you're not always right" especially when she's been subjected to unacceptable behaviour by her sister and her son has openly lied to her. So, my lesson learned, when she says something off to me, I'll tackle straight away because if I save it, she denies ever making the comment.

I still feel great disappointment at my SIL's actions last year, even more so since she's not apologised. When I consider that behaviour in context with other family member's attitudes, it's not a surprise. Some reminded me of how much she and my brother had done for me. What they forget is how much I've done for them. Helping to pack for house move when my little niece was in hospital, helping with decorating at new house, helping at birthday parties. How convenient to have a memory lapse. SIL had nerve to tell me I was just like my mother and aunt; my answer was no, at least I can make a decision. Wonder what they'd make of her comment when she first arrived in our family "your mother and aunt do my head in".

So many people have said never lower your standards. Yes, you can feel isolated but you have the clear conscience!