14 Comments
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David Roberts's avatar

Hi Noha,

I really enjoyed this post. Raising your hand may have been motivated by your instinct to follow rules and be honest, but nevertheless it was an incredibly brave thing to do.

I'm writing a post about criticism that touches upon childhood memories of shame. In the meantime, thanks for sharing this story.

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Noha Beshir's avatar

I really look forward to reading your post, David. In my case, I'm not sure if I was brave or just very conditioned.

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Anne-Marie C's avatar

I hear this, Noha. I recognize the conditioned impulse to answer the teacher’s question / honor what your mom had done out of strong conditioning that was not for public self-preservation or bravery, either, just for survival (or what seemed like survival at the time). Thank you for sharing this. And for the comment that led me to it, your feeling of gratitude for a friend’s support. ❤️

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Mary's avatar

My 7 year old part wanted me to hide under the kitchen table as I was reading this . Girls are plagued with so many spoken and unspoken messages (rules)- the people pleasing. You are always welcome at my table

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Noha Beshir's avatar

We really really are, Mary. Thanks for the care and consideration.

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Daoud Shaheen's avatar

School can be cruel

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Noha Beshir's avatar

Yes it can be. ❤️

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anna c's avatar

The last line!hahaha!!!!!!

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Noha Beshir's avatar

Children’s brains just work differently. I don’t think I need to tell you that the two women looked nothing alike and that the entire overlap was a common last name 😂😂

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Ambata Kazi's avatar

Has Ms. Turner never been a child? The ending was very funny.

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Noha Beshir's avatar

And I’m glad you enjoyed the ending 😂😂😂

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Noha Beshir's avatar

Never! She was clearly born an adult

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Jeffrey Streeter's avatar

Excellent post. Thank you for sharing this. Lots of food for thought.

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Noha Beshir's avatar

I'm glad you enjoyed, Jeffrey! So glad to have you along for the ride.

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