Back in time 1995, when I was studying Art Plastic at the Saints Coeurs Institute, I had this nun, Sister Agnes (May God bless her soul) was my inspiration.
When at class, I chose the subject of my drawing, I felt fear and responsibility not to make a good choice of colors as they might spoil my paintings, I hear her coming closer and say to me: “Latifa, I believe in you, believe in yourself.”
Two years later, I finished my studies, and it was time to start my Atelier, but still, I was afraid to make this move because of the political situation and war in Lebanon.
I was working in a company as an Administrative Assistant and was struggling with my situation. I wasn’t happy with the environment I was working in, because of many issues like salary, responsibilities, people dealing with, etc.
Every time I tried to quit work, I would hear this voice telling me, “Do not risk your work in these difficult circumstances for the good of your family” I feel terrified and lack confidence.
A couple of years later, one day, while visiting my doctor, he was choked when he asked me about the person who painted the silk handkerchief I was wearing, and I told him it was me, he replied that it is a pity not to share your talent with others.
That moment, I heard the same voice rings in my head “Latifa, I believe in you, believe in yourself” that time, I felt like I went to visit my doctor to have a physical cure, but instead, I had a morale boost.
I came home with thoughts running through my head, determined to quit work and open my business.
Sometimes in life, we need a push towards achieving our dream, whether it is a word, a movement, or a sign. Sometimes we feel afraid to follow our dreams, but as the saying goes, courage is not to be scared, but to overcome your fear.
The important thing is not to give up on dreaming and always strive to achieve it regardless of the circumstances keeping in mind that success is a journey, not a destination.
Created by Latifa El Hachem, July 15, 2021
