If you find yourself in a difficult situation, why not create a self-portrait?

In Croatian, there is an expression "you can paint yourself" (moš’ se slikat) that is used in situations where one feels helpless. This phrase is used when there are no other options available. For instance, when the damage to the car is irreparable, we might say, "Now you can paint yourself."

At times, we find ourselves in relationships or situations that could have been managed more effectively if we had the wisdom and knowledge to handle them better at the time. Occasionally, a string of errors can result in reaching a dead end and feeling trapped. It is in these moments when we may feel helpless in a relationship or situation. This is typically the appropriate time to say "moš’ se slikat" to someone or something.

Recently, I used the phrase "moš se slikat" when dealing with someone who had been betraying my trust for a long time. I spent over a year trying to navigate this challenging relationship. I allowed my emotions to be tested for months, prayed about the person and the situation, and ultimately chose to protect myself from further harm. In my mind, I conveyed to the individual: "now you can paint yourself." I made the decision to establish new boundaries.

As a result of the challenge, I discovered a new creative approach which I have begun implementing in the workshops I conduct. Reflecting on my recent "moš se slikat" moment motivated me to create a self-portrait and contemplate a seemingly insurmountable situation I am facing. Rather than pointing fingers, I chose to address the issue by opening up my heart for examination. The process involved using the art of introspection (creative mirror display).

Reflecting on my own "moš se slikat" dilemma prompted me to delve into the self-portraits of renowned artists such as Renoir, Van Gogh, Monet, Michelangelo, Salvador Dali, and others. I pondered how often these artists turned to self-portraiture when they found themselves in a challenging position. I questioned whether creating a self-portrait was their way of defiantly responding to a seemingly helpless situation they were facing.

Today, I invite you to create your own self-portrait. Reflect on instances where you have found yourself in a difficult situation. You can paint, draw, sew, or utilize another form of creative expression to craft your self-portrait. While working on your self-portrait, ask the Holy Spirit to search your heart for selfish intentions. It's possible that the perceived helpless scenario stems from a misguided, self-centered mindset. You may not have the ability to alter the circumstances or individuals involved, but you can remain open to personal transformation.

Perhaps the end result will be, like in my case, to say someone ‘moš’ se slikat’. However, before you tell someone your way of saying “moš’ se slikat”, remember to examine your own heart for wrong attitudes and alignments first. Like me, you too could also make a self-portrait in the process. There is much to be discovered in the process of making and observing self-portraits.

“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” - Matthew 7:3-5