Understanding the root cause of these feelings is crucial. Is it a lack of fulfillment in the marriage, or is there a genuine connection with the father-in-law? Identifying the source can guide the next steps.

If you love your father-in-law’s patience, talk to your husband about how you value that trait. Give him the chance to grow into those qualities.

You don’t share a checking account with your father-in-law. You don’t argue with him about whose turn it is to wake up with the baby or how to spend the tax refund. Because the father-in-law exists outside the "war room" of daily chores and financial stress, the affection you feel for him remains untainted by the mundane frustrations of marriage. 5. He Is the Bridge to Your Children