Don't know me

Why does it seem like some of the people I think know me best, really don't? It surprises me and it actually hurts my feelings too, when someone gives one of my actions a motivation completely opposite to the way I think or feel. A good example: A few years ago my children were laughing and talking, and a comment was made implying that I am one of those interfering mother/mother-in-laws. Nothing could be further from the truth..I don't go to my children's homes often..never unannounced or uninvited. I do not dole out unsolicited opinions or advice. I try very hard just to be there if they need me. They were joking but it wasn't funny to me. The same thing applies to what I consider to be close friends...the people who should know what makes me tick. I think sometimes that even tho you explain your thoughts and feelings, people really only hear what they want to hear. Or are they just distracted and what you said just didn't register? Or maybe they just don't care to know that much about you? Who knows............I guess we are all guilty to some degree.