Ruth feels deeply hurt after learning that her son has stopped helping her with rent and is instead giving money to his mother-in-law. As a widow living on limited means, she depended on that support for basic necessities. Hearing that the funds were redirected to pay for her mother-in-law’s spa visits left her shocked and betrayed. What makes it harder is that the decision was delivered not by her son, but by her daughter-in-law.

Some readers sympathize strongly with Ruth. One commenter, Ilonka Wimmer-Ljungqvist, pointed out that enjoying a spa day is a luxury, while keeping a roof over one’s head is essential. She believes the daughter-in-law acted out of spite and encouraged Ruth to speak privately with her son to understand what is really happening. She also suggested questioning why the daughter-in-law does not contribute financially if she feels entitled to her husband’s income.

For Ruth, the next step begins with open communication. A calm, honest conversation with her son and daughter-in-law can help clarify expectations and express how their decision affects her well-being. If tensions rise, involving a neutral mediator or counselor may help everyone discuss the issue respectfully and reach a fair solution. At the same time, Ruth can explore other forms of support—community programs, government assistance, or social resources for widows—to avoid relying solely on her son.

If no resolution is found and Ruth feels her rights are being overlooked, consulting a legal professional may provide clarity about her options. Protecting her stability and dignity is essential. Ruth’s situation echoes that of Roberta, another mother who faced distressing treatment from her daughter-in-law when seeking help. These stories remind us how painful family conflicts can be—and how important it is to address them with honesty, compassion, and clear boundaries.