First of all, teaching is a gift. You are affecting the lives of these children. You have the power to open up the world for them. You are making a difference. You can be the reason they love learning and that can continue for the rest of their lives.
As far as your inlaws - shame on them for doing that to their grandchildren. Shame on them for not helping their son face his addiction.
I know it is hurtful for them to cut you out like that. I was very close to my SIL. Xh had lost his mom when he was young. His dad about 12 years ago. (Loved his dad and he loved me). Anyway, SIL knew who I was. I treated her children as if they were my own.
We knew each other for 30 years. I thought when all this happened, we would remain close. Didnt happen.
I was sad, for a little while. But, then I realized that I had no control over what she did. That was on her.
As long as I knew my truth, that is what mattered to me.
Your inlaws do not sound like people worthy of being in your life, my friend.
And I would think seriously about having your FIL representing you in a dissolution.
Yes, your mother did the best she could. I am sure she has her own demons to conquer. The only thing you can do is have compassion.
