Bella
Dear Maryann ,
I ’ m an artist . I use the time alone to paint when I am not teaching . My paintings are suggestive , but I have had friends who say I should sell them here in the UAE . Since they are considered “ haram ”, I am afraid I may get into trouble . Should I continue to paint privately or sell my paintings anyway ?
Artfully , Jamir
Jamir , It sounds like your paintings mean a lot to you . Whether they are therapeutic , relaxing or extra income , it does not sound like you want to stop . And you shouldn ’ t . Who told you that the paintings are “ haram ”? Until you have clarity about this , you should continue to paint privately . Have you explored selling your paintings online ? Everything does not have to be on public display . You can stay true to your talent and respect the local culture at the same time . Maybe you are making this more complicated than it has to be .
M
Dear Maryann ,
One of my male students is very rude to me . He is constantly criticizing my clothes and teaching in front of other students . I have disciplined him many times , but he keeps pushing me . The last time , I cried in front of the class . I was embarrassed since I cry very easily . I have so much going on in my personal life . I have a verbally abusive husband , and I don ’ t need the abuse at work , too . I want to quit . What should I do ?
Shaky , Donna
Donna ,
Don ' t quit . You will go to a new job and encounter the same problem until you deal with the real problem – you . You are the common thread here . What is it about you that make men , or anyone , disrespect you ? How do you take care of yourself ? Are you used to playing the victim ? People tend to only mirror to us who we are inside . Until you look at yourself deep down and ask yourself these hard questions , you will meet the same abuse wherever you go . Next time , it may be someone standing on a line at Lulu ’ s or , a rude cab driver . You will continue to feel slighted wherever you are . To change this , you have to work on yourself . First , practice extreme self-care . Look in the mirror , and tell yourself several times a day .
M
Maryann Reid , a personal coach and educator from New York can be reached at maryann @ teachuae . com
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After The Bell Jan - Feb 2017