When I read this letter I felt like it was written by me :o
“Dear Extroverts,
You amaze me. Your outgoing friendliness, your capacity for life and people, your sheer energy! I’m fascinated by the way you can go from engagement to engagement without taking a break. And how you never seem to be at a loss for words.
(…)
I’m sorry, (…), for making you feel awkward by my silence. It takes me a while to put words to my thoughts. It’s scary for me to start speaking without knowing the complete thought I want to express. In most cases, I probably have something to say – if you just wait long enough for me to gather my thoughts. Or, if you give me a heads up and mention it to me beforehand, I can mull things over in advance. You probably wouldn’t believe this, but most times, I will rehearse a phone call in my head before I dial your number. And after we hang up, I’ll replay our conversation twenty times in my head, thinking of better things I could have said.
(…)
I’m learning though. I’m learning that being able to sit in stillness is a gift. And that my limits are also a gift. I’m learning to be more bold with what I have to offer the world; to speak louder when I do decide to talk. I’m learning, too, that I can appreciate your strengths without needing to possess them myself. Because in the end, we all need each other. And you inspire me to take more risks in life.
I do really appreciate when you initiate with me though. Picking up the phone is a bit scary sometimes, so it’s nice when you call. (…)