My favorite thing to subtly tell people when I am first getting to know them is that I’m introverted.
Naturally as an introverted person, it was a struggle to actively invite people into my life, as each new name and face I learned, I suspected would be another strain on my energy reserves.
I was the type of person who would only talk to the few I was comfortable with, and with those who approached me first.
My trepidations of rejection from starting a conversation that might not be equally reciprocated, halted any initiation on my part.
Despite this, throughout my early high school career, I tested the limitations I had set up for myself.
I started small and spoke to those who sat near me in classes, and eventually became confident enough with my social skills to where I had no problem talking to absolute strangers.
My ill conceived conception of high school was that it was every man for themselves, but it quickly became apparent to me how intrinsic human interaction is to a prosperous community.
Now, more than ever, I challenge myself to step past the intangible boundaries I create for myself, and create a space for self growth and dedicate time to fostering relationships with my peers.
TCHS School Newspaper