Family boundaries and celebrations: Why exclusion from a dinner plan led to a difficult decision regarding a birthday event

has been discussed with my son. His wife will not be staying for the dinner. It’s a family matter, you understand. No need for questions when she leaves.”

My blood turned to absolute ice. The pieces didn’t just click into place; they slammed together like a prison door.

The missing seat wasn’t going to be an oversight. It wasn’t a mistake by the restaurant.continue reading …