Lisa, fight!

Submitted by Shömi (United States), Apr 18, 2017 at 00:31

Dear Lisa,

I read a few posts describing your situation. I don't have answers, but at least I can offer some hints.

Most of us here already dealt with problems of intercultural relationships, hence the perspective of organizing our lives between two continents. Your solution was daring, creative and had potential to benefit both parties. Even though you happened to overestimate your partner, the plan, effort and funds were yours to begin with. You remain the strong element of the deal, even if the income is temporarily withheld from you. Cheer up Lisa. You have the power to win this. He is just a mere pickpocket and a parasite.

It's not decency that makes him share the little percentage of income with you. He must be aware that you will become a very dangerous opponent once you have nothing to lose. Don't let him keep you asleep. He's still STEALING what is righteously yours. Don't be afraid of him finding out what you wrote here. If he did the same thing to another Moroccan, the guy would probably set his business on fire and slit his throat if he didn't return the money. Yet another option to consider, lol.

Having a business abroad is not easy, and you should have been present managing the funds, looking after the paperwork, and so on. BUT. Morocco is luckily one of these countries where law is designed to protect tourism. You have a good chance to receive help from authorities, officials, embassies and other organizations. "Franklin" or two can open many doors, they are all corrupted.

I think your best bid right now is finding a friend in your field. An experienced foreign business owner in Morocco could show you the ropes. That would be best done in person I'm afraid, but you can try getting in touch with someone via this forum even, or AirBnB? You need resources first.

Number two, do not involve in any more games with your "partner". It's time to bring it down to business. Have a third party involved as a negotiator. It could be a lawyer representing you in official correspondence, or a big male friend accompany you on the next visit. Let him now the game is over. The amount he is giving you at this point is meaningless and I would not accept it all. Speak to him in language he understands, best served as direct threat. Show him you're taking action. Or otherwise... make your money elsewhere, kiss your mistakes goodbye, sit back and watch him burn the business to the ground... He needs you to make it work. Before you know he will back to where he started or worse. I know this is not the kind of satisfaction you're looking for. I'm holding my thumbs for you Lisa. You are a strong woman, I'm sure of it. It's time to polish your armor :)

Much Love,
Shömi

Note: Opinions expressed in comments are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of Daniel Pipes. Original writing only, please. Comments are screened and in some cases edited before posting. Reasoned disagreement is welcome but not comments that are scurrilous, off-topic, commercial, disparaging religions, or otherwise inappropriate. For complete regulations, see the "Guidelines for Reader Comments".