In the age of social media, it’s not uncommon for life’s moments to be shared, scrutinized, and dissected by a virtual jury of peers. Recently, a viral post on a popular platform ignited a heated discussion centered around personal boundaries, respect, and family dynamics.
Featured Image Credit: Krakenimages.com /Depositphotos.com.
The Viral Post
The post, authored by a pregnant woman in her mid-twenties, revealed her dilemma and the aftermath of her response to an unwanted physical touch from her mother-in-law (MIL).
The original poster (OP), who hailed from a background marked by abuse, embarked on an emotional journey as she and her husband eagerly anticipated the arrival of their first child. However, the joyous occasion was marred by an issue that has plagued many expecting mothers: unsolicited belly touches.
Boundary Disregard
OP recounted her struggles with her in-laws, specifically her MIL and sister-in-law (SIL), who seemed to disregard her discomfort and touch her belly without consent. The couple had communicated their boundaries, requesting that family members seek permission before touching her pregnant belly. Despite these pleas, OP often found herself physically invaded.
The Breaking Point
This unsettling trend culminated at her baby shower when her MIL touched her belly without permission during a conversation. In response, OP addressed her MIL with a condescending tone, saying, “No, no, you know I’ve told you not to touch without asking first. You know how to ask first, do you? It’s easy!” This sparked a confrontation that left OP’s MIL feeling hurt and embarrassed.
Family Discord
Later, OP’s father-in-law (FIL) called OP’s husband and expressed his desire that both OP and her MIL should apologize to each other. OP, undaunted, refused to do so and in turn, was called a derogatory name.
With this as the background, OP turned to the online community to seek advice.
Online Opinions
One user, puppyfa***s99, highlighted that the MIL’s response could have been more considerate.
“The proper response from your MIL would have been, ‘I’m so sorry, OP. You’re right. You’ve been very clear about this and I let it slip my mind. I’ll remember to ask permission before touching you in the future. Please forgive me.’ There, done and dusted. But instead, she chose to be offended.”
Consent Is Essential
Another user, BTOB_OT7_Melody, supported OP, asserting that no one should be touched without consent, especially someone with an aversion to physical contact.
“Also, being asked to apologize because ‘you both were at fault’ is infuriating, especially when you weren’t at fault at all. I say talk it out with MIL since she’s family but you weren’t in the wrong here.”
More Comments Poured In
Bitter-Conflict-4089 took a strict stance, commending OP for her response and proposing a complete ban on touching as a solution to prevent further discomfort.
“She has been told multiple times not to touch you without permission. You were nicer than most people would have been. Since the asking part is too difficult for her. I would just completely ban touching altogether.“
Neenknits praised OP’s handling of the situation and pointed out that setting boundaries was essential, especially when it came to the arrival of their baby.
The Verdict
In the court of public opinion, the consensus is clear: OP was well within her rights to assert her boundaries. OP’s repeated requests for consent before belly touches were reasonable, and her MIL’s failure to respect them was the primary issue at hand. Commenters unanimously supported OP’s stance, emphasizing the importance of consent, especially when it comes to physical contact.
The situation underscores the need for open communication within families and the recognition that personal boundaries should be upheld, even among close relatives.
What do you think? Let us know in the comments. Do you think the OP from this social media post was wrong?
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