My issue is controlling sister-in-law. She runs brother's life and thinks it's fine to be outspoken about family members. Since they married, she said my mother and aunt "do her head in", too busy to do a simple job of collecting something from my mom's house (he did it anyway). Also told me I'm just like my mother, the final straw when she lashed out at me. What gives her the right to say these things. Of course, my brother would never dream of telling her that it's unacceptable. My mother is scared of her.

Is it jealousy? She's nothing to be jealous of where I'm concerned, unless it's the good education and knowledge I have. Of course, this all gets worse when she's had a drink. There's now a rift with brother and her, as I find behaviour unacceptable. I'm supposed to be thankful for all they've done for me, even accept physical abuse. What's forgotten is all I've done for them. Thankfully, I have means to keep in touch with my niece who has more empathy, integrity and decency than ever her parents will have!

We are all used at one stage or another, even by close family. In my view, it's very sad to have someone in your close family who seems to have a different moral compass.