If you were Muriel how would you have?

Question

Tonight Muriel (in her 50’s) was in her room organizing some things. Her mom (in her 80’s) passed by Muriel’s room.

Mom: “Where are you getting the extra money from? Are you taking it out of your charge card.”

Muriel: “No”

Mom: “I don’t believe you. Do you realize you will be charged 18 percent for every cash transaction”

Muriel: “No I am not taking it out of the charge card”

Mom: “You know you could be very successful”

Muriel: “Huh”

Mom: “You could have a lot of money in the bank, you don’t need to take the money out of the charge card”

This got Muriel a little angry and she and her mom had a fight. You see every time Muriel and her mom start to get along her mom says something to upset Muriel. When they were fighting they each said nasty things to one another.

Any advice for Muriel? If you were Muriel how would you have handled the mother’s remarks.

Answer 1

"Mom, I'm over 50 years old and so far, I've managed my money very well.  I can tell that you are concerned mom, but I'm not sure why?  Have I done anything to disappoint you?  Why do you say that I could be very successful?  I'm pretty happy with my life right now!  Is there something you would like to discuss with me mom?"

Muriel needs to stay calm and respectful.  If mom is not respectful, then Muriel needs to say "mom, I'm upset with your comments right now and I need time to calm down, we can discuss later if you'll respect my privacy."

Good luck.

Answer 2

How about moving out of your mom's house?