Have you ever ended up in the middle of struggle for dominance between your husband and another man in your life, such as your dad or your brother? It is a difficult position to find yourself in and no wants to be forced to choose between the family that raised her and the family she’s made. It can be a very trying experience and it usually ends with someone having hurt feelings. That person may be you.
If there is any way to lessen the tension or separate the men until things cool off, it is wise to do so. If not, it is best for you to stay out of it if possible and let them work things out together. I say this because it’s happened to me years ago, and I managed to get myself right in the middle. Both my husband and my brother later told me I should have stayed out if it and they would have worked things out more quickly.
Men deal with things differently than women. They get angry, express their anger, and generally move on. Women tend to analyze and discuss even though sometimes doing so isn’t necessary.
My brother and my husband butted heads at one point, and they said they would have simply had it out and then shook hands if I had left them alone. Instead, I insisted on representing each one’s position and telling the other how close-minded he was being. I tried to make them talk about it, compromise, and resolve the issue to the benefit of both of them.
My big brother was used to being my adviser and protector and finally realized that it was time for him to let go. My husband had taken over those roles in my life for the most part, and he expected my brother to treat him with respect, instead of treating him like some lousy boyfriend.
Apparently, they needed to establish their places in my life with each other… and without any help from me.
Just my two cents, in case you ever find yourself in a similar situation.