I had a big birthday recently. I don't expect anything from anyone. I buy myself something to mark it. Because it was a big birthday I did receive a few cards, and a few gifts. Very much appreciated.
My mother sent an empty card. Don't get me wrong. She is under no obligation to give me anything. None whatsoever. I can't stress that enough.
But this was just her yet again, being slyly passive aggressive. She would be buying a card and putting money into it for the next door neighbours dog - slight exaggeration. And telling me about it. New babies of neighbours she barely knows. Card and gift.
But she went into a shop, bought the card specifically, and didn't stick a two quid lottery ticket into it. It was to make a point, nothing else. Once again, I stress, she is under no obligation to send me a card and definitely not a present. But this was meant to hurt.
I'm also going through a bit of ill health so maybe it hurt that bit more. I texted her to say thanks and she said oh I must get you a present another time... I said, no worries, forget about it. Cos she has no intention of it.
I don't know, genuinely don't know why I am the one that takes the brunt of her passive aggressiveness. It's like she enjoys the sneaky little comments and digs while appearing holier than thou to everyone else.
If I were to say anything in return, (I don't because nobody would believe it of her) it would be 'moi!?' type response. 'Innocent little saintly me? You must have taken me up wrong...'
And the rest of the family would side with her. So I'm between a rock and a hard place.
Okay that's off my chest now.