Posted by scratchpad on June 11, 2007, at 8:57:33
In reply to My family makes me crazy, posted by TexasChic on June 10, 2007, at 22:26:41
It sounds so chaotic, TC! I would need at least a bottle of wine to medicate after such a visit. For me, the craziness comes from trying to exert control over other people's actions. Your mom's, your nephew's - they are all going to do exactly what they are going to do. We either have to give in to their craziness and watch it like a circus side show, or we can drive ourselves into a frenzy trying to change it.
One thing you can do, though, is carry out a threat to remove yourself from the place. If you say, "I'm going to leave if you guys don't stop this!" then that's what you should do! Or maybe give yourself a time out - walk out the front door, go for a short drive or a walk, and calm yourself down. Tell yourself how crazy these people are, and try to laugh about it. (Your mom sounds like a whack-a-doodle!) Then when you're ready, you can walk back in with your inner peace intact, and watch the second act.This is what I'm trying to do with my step daughter, who lives a life filled with self-created drama and crises. I used to get really angry with how irresponsible she is, and now I just kind of watch and try to guess when the next crash is going to happen. I love her, of course; and I offer my help. But I no longer get myself involved personally in her life story, as it makes me crazy too. And honestly, I don't think I handle it very well.
hugs to you,
Scratchpad
poster:scratchpad
thread:762273
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20070523/msgs/762335.html