Many of my readers are significantly introverted – meaning, social interactions are fine with the right people, and numbingly awkward with everyone else. They’re uncomfortable in noisy, crowded situations. They get embarrassed about things they’ve said. They recognize they should be leading in some way, and too often fearful to do so. They’re quick to see their faults and deficiencies.
Me, too.
I share this to encourage you: I am better because I put my writing out there. I am better because I share honestly and candidly. I am better because I externalize a bit of my interior, which allows me to truly see it, and get feedback from others. I am better because I force myself to articulate uncomfortable, fuzzy thoughts and ideas. I am better because I engage with people and get my rough edges chiseled and sanded off. I am better when I push past awkwardness and discomforting social situations. We are better together.
It’s accurate when God refers to His people as sheep in the Bible, but it’s not a compliment. Sheep are quite stupid, practically defenseless, and can’t clean themselves. Sheep do best in flocks and die alone. There are necessary moments of loneliness, solitude, and discomfort. But it is the enemy of all that is good that wants you truly isolated and alone.
