I am a 19-year-old girl. I am a student of B.A. in a renowned girls’ college in Karachi. I belong to a middle class family. I live in Nazimabad and my college is in Defence.
My everyday travelling is a torture
Dear Guru,
I am a 19-year-old girl. I am a student of B.A. in a renowned girls’ college in Karachi. I belong to a middle class family. I live in Nazimabad and my college is in Defence. Those who live in Karachi know that it takes at least 40 minutes to reach Defence from Nazimabad (in a car). My problem is that I have to go to college by public bus and it takes me at least one and a half hours to reach college every day. My father goes to his office in his car, but his office is at I.I.Chundrigar Road. I cannot ask him to drop me to college as it would make him late. My brother has a bike, but he feels embarrassed to drop me to college on his bike. Now, I have no other option but to go to college by bus. Usually, the buses are crowded and I feel very uneasy when I have to face strangers looking at me. I feel like slapping them (and do so in my imagination). I really get exhausted by the time I reach home and then I am left with no energy to concentrate on my studies. Guru, is there a way out for me? I am so sick and tired of going by public transport. Suggest me some practical solution.
Girl in a Fix
Dear Girl in a Fix,
I can understand your predicament. It is actually a nightmare for people to travel by buses contrary to the developed countries where public transport means convenience, not torture. Well, we can only hope that our city government will take some concrete measures and re-define/re-structure our public transport system. Now, coming to your specific problem, I advise you to discuss your issue with your parents and think of different solutions. One is to talk to your college management. Normally, colleges have their own vans that pick and drop girls from different vicinities. Have you ever considered this option? It may be a little expensive than bus but then it will save you from a lot of hassle and you can concentrate on your studies with a peaceful mind. Another option is to persuade your brother to pick and drop you. If he feels embarrassed in taking you out, then wear a hijab, while sitting on a bike. The third option is to talk to the girls who live nearby and go to the same college. Pool money and hire a taxi. If there are four girls then you all can contribute and can easily manage to go to college in a better vehicle. Good luck!
I am an aspiring artist
Salaam Guru,
I am a 22-year-old boy. I have been reading Us magazine since I was a teenager and I am a great fan of your column. I am a medical student and am in my fourth year. My problem is that though I am studying medicine, I don’t want to become a doctor. I always wanted to become an artist. I am naturally good with drawings. I recently participated in a painting exhibition as an amateur artist, and people really appreciated my work. I want to quit studies and want to become a full-time artist. I want to do different courses to enhance my skills, but my parents are not letting me pursue my dream. My parents want me to complete my education. My father says that you have to have a solid profession. According to him, artists don’t earn much in our society. I cannot go against my father’s will as he is the one who is supporting me financially. Guru, I am really confused. What should I do? Should I listen to my father or should I listen to my heart?
Artist in Quandary
Dear Artist in Quandary,
Don’t lose heart, my dear; you can pursue both the things at the same time. I have seen a lot of doctors who are great musicians, writers, artists, singers and painters. Painting is your passion and you are naturally good at it, and you can always paint at any age. But I think this is your age to concentrate on your future. You seem like an intelligent student and you are already in the 4th year, so it’s better if you first complete your professional studies. Think practically, as you also need to earn well. Even if you want to be a full-time artist, what guarantee is there that your paintings will be sold? How will you run your home, how will you be able to buy expensive brushes and painting paraphernalia? Your father is right. One needs money to have a stable living and we all know that doctors earn well. And yes, you can always listen to your heart’s voice but wisdom says that one needs money, too, to fulfil one’s dreams. Good luck!
