For some reason, known only to Mummy Dearest, has decided to rehash issues from my childhood.... Mom was clinically depressed most of my life, and as most of us know, pharmaceuticals 40 years ago aren't what they are now.

Last fall she sent something, and I responded, in writing. She sent another letter, which I didn't answer after talking things over with my litter sister. Shredded the letter. Mom has never asked me anything directly.

So earlier this week, I get a note in my mailbox about a certified letter from my mother. I have to go to the Post Office to retrieve it, I can't sign the note and have my mailman deliver it the next day. Kind of tough when one works full time. So today I was talking to my Mom, and she said she's sent me a couple of letters that I haven't answered, and she wants answers. Since I've only received one, I asked if that's what's the certified letter is about - that she went to a lot of trouble and expense to send a letter that is difficult for me to retrieve. She gets coy, and says I'll just have to get it to find out.

What if I don't want to play her game? I'm considering three options....
1. Do nothing, wait out the 15 days, and the certified letter will be sent back.
2. Call her and tell her that I don't want to play the silly mail game, and if she has a direct question, why can't she just ask it? (she doesn't do well with direct confrontation at all)
3. Collect the letter, and send it to her therapist - but I'll need my sister to supply the name.

So great wisdom of TE what do you think???

How does one deal with someone who was unhappy most of your life? I'd love to tell her "not now I don't have time, and get out of my hair" but I highly doubt she'll get the reference.