Dealing with smears

[Rainydaze]

Hi Lingurine. 

Yes, I think you're absolutely right and I'm pleased to say that I'm beginning to get much better at validating myself. I've been strict about who I share what with which helps, plus if I'm not comfortable discussing my situation with someone then I quickly change the subject (MIL means well but sometimes brings it up casually as though it's something to gossip about ). I think time and my refusal to seek out 'unsafe' people's opinions is really helping.