Who Am I, Energetically Speaking?
An Introvert’s Perspective…
The other day I was in my local animal-humane-sponsored thrift shop on a sunny afternoon, when I spied an energetic older woman with snow-white hair. She was busily helping people find things, giving out compliments, and engaging in lively conversations. Since I assumed she worked there, I asked her a question about a specific item I was looking for. “Oh, honey, I don’t work here. I don’t even live here. I’m just visiting my son.”
I was so surprised! She seemed so at home, so grounded, and most of all, so friendly. After our brief exchange, I left the room feeling deflated, and in the background, I heard her strike up yet another interesting conversation with a complete stranger, with total confidence.
This is something I cannot do — and although it’s never come naturally, I’ve tried. Said strangers will look at me askance and wander away, or nod politely and avoid eye contact. I don’t have the gift of gab, or the energetic “pull” of a true extrovert. I’m an introvert. When I try to push my personal envelope, apparently, my words or tone apparently do not come out the way that I want them to — but in lieu of carrying around a running tape recorder, I guess I’ll never know.
Last night I was watching a rerun of “Seinfeld,” the one where Elaine dances at her office…
