I think Burg is implying that the women here are giving Brian's wife a "break" that they would not give a man if the situation was reversed. I think he's implying that we would be as incensed as Cemar that the husband was not at his wife's side. Just my impression.
However this whole situation is interesting to me because in Raven's and my case it could be reversed. Raven is an only child while my brother's and SILs live close to my parents. Although Raven's parent's have nieces and nephews that would probably help, I would assume that Raven would want to be there if his parents were seriously ill. Also I have family and friends that I know could be by my side if I needed it.
AND as another example a friend's brother went an annual elk hunting trip (against his wife's wishes) while his wife was close to delivering a baby and in the end missed his last daughter's birth. (He missed it by less than 24 hours - he was sure that he would make it) They are still together doing just fine. Maybe not the H's best move but certainly not a move that destroyed their marriage. DO I think it was the wisest decision? NO. Do I think the decision reflected how much he loved or cared for his wife? NO.
By the way, really cute story about this couple. The H was telling their 7 year old daughter not to jump on her bed and she asked "Why not? I can hear you and Mommy getting to." Not much to say to that, huh???
Anyway, question for Brian. Have you FELT that your wife has placed your MIL above you consistently? or is this first time you have had that feeling?
But what is happiness except the simple harmony between a man and the life he leads? ~Albert Camus
