It is so hard to be assertive with my mom! I talked to her today on the phone and she was talking about Terri Schiavo, and I just don't want anything to do with that. I turn off the tv to avoid it, and I told my mom I didn't like talking about it, and she kept on talking, and I just kept saying I didnt want to hear about it, I was avoiding tv... She finally quit, but then tried to end the conversation. I think she's really scared that I'm mad at her. I'm not, but I really was starting to feel bad listening to her talk, and I didn't want to hear about poor Terri anymore. But I did it, and at least I can tell her what I don't want to hear. But boy do I feel guilty!
Anyone else have ideas on how to handle your parents?

thanks,

Deb

Well.. 1st of all. It's great that you stood up for yourself. My mom and dad do the same thing.....my dad drones on and on about how screwed up our govt. is.....i dont wanna hear that stuff! it just adds to my own negativity!. For some reason i had the courage to tell my DAD no but my MOM is so hard because i have a closer relationship with her. I can tell she wants to "advise" me on how to act with my friends and how to treat them........like I can't figure it out on my own. Anyways....you have to state whats bothering you using "I" statements alot.

It's hard with your parents. But you have to
tell them or else you get built up resentments (LIKE ME) and things get worse. Hope this helps