The Introvert

After all these years, conferences still unnerve me. Large gatherings–where everyone is merely an acquaintance, where conversations seem scripted, and in my line of work, where gregariousness is next to godliness–still unsettle me. And in this unsettledness I become more introverted, more reclusive.

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And then I sense people view me as stuck-up. And when I do try to engage someone in earnest, you know, to show them somehow that I’m not at all this way, it exhausts me. I wish I could deliver a memo or make an announcement, "I’m not arrogant, I just lack self-confidence." "I’m not uppish, I’m just not my best at these kind events."

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Here’s what I wish I would have told myself over the last score of years instead of trying so hard to change something in me that is, as far as I can see, resistant to change:

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…Lighten up on yourself. Forgive yourself more often, as often as you can. Don’t strain at everything so bloody much. And don’t judge so much. Let every encounter offer its own expression, retain its own personality, be its own offering.

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Don’t reprimand yourself about being solitary, shy, preferring the margins. Remember that there are others like you. You’re not alone. Don’t judge. Receive the blessing of people who are not at all like you. Enjoy.

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And then, don’t feel bad about skipping a session and taking a shuttle to Manhattan Beach, taking off your shoes, rolling up your pants and walking in the surf, watching the pelicans fish, and looking for a perfect purple clam shell to take home to your wife.

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This after all is your true calling. You are called to "consider the lilies."

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5 Comments

  1. Note to Connie: I am truly jealous of Steve when I see these pictures.

    Thank you, sweetheart for thinking of me on the beach…wish I was there.

  2. I’m okay with you being an introvert. Something special comes forth that we would never see on your blog if you were like the other individuals you describe. I celebrate that gift. The pictures are beautiful!

  3. “Don’t reprimand yourself about being solitary, shy, preferring the margins. Remember that there are others like you. You’re not alone……..This after all is your true calling. You are called to “consider the lilies.”

    Beautiful and encouraging comments.

    Don’t tell anyone but I’m a refugee from a farm background and I am almost a socio-phobe (not phebe, not path….phobe)

    The net lets me be stupid without fear of rejection so please forgive my Apish demeanour. I am just letting my repressed teen years happen now.

  4. I am happy to hear how our many friends from Canada spend their time here in California. I am glad that you walked on the beach,enjoyed the sand, air , sky and birds – since I only thought of it. Manhatten Beach is now one of my favorites to visit. Glad you enjoyed Steve. Keep on taking those great pics and writing down your profound thoughts!

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