I am most
definitely a people person. I love meeting new people and I’m usually full of
questions wanting to know their stories, what makes them tick. My brain likes
to make connections and I am genuinely interested.
I guess that
makes me an extrovert!
I thrive on
social interaction.
But the
longer lockdown goes on the happier I feel being cocooned in my own little
world on my own with a good book – I think I’ve already read 8 this year and it
is only the beginning of March; I usually only manage a couple a month.
Am I
becoming an introvert?
Or is there
more going on?
I still love
meeting people, talking to people, in fact I’ve joined a local book swapping group
on Facebook and am currently messaging someone I don’t know in person arranging
collection of a book I’m giving away. Unfortunately, she lives in the next
village and it’s just a little too far to walk to for a drop off.
And that’s
the issue I suppose, I’m having to make excuses to go out anywhere. It’s been
drummed into us that we need to stay at home, save the NHS, not make unnecessary
journeys.
During the
enforced confinement I’ve decided I quite like my cosy little home; I don’t really
need to leave so I’m retreating from the world only venturing out into cyber
space for the odd zoom meeting. Does that satisfy my need for human interaction?
Most days the answer is a resounding yes!
And it’s
cold and dull outside so why bother?
Of course, I
do go out, Friday’s market is a highlight of my week because I get to talk to
so many people. I regularly chat to all the stall holders and try to buy from
as many as I can.
Our church
is open and although we don’t congregate for coffee as we used to do after a
service, plenty of us gather near the door on leaving, often still with masks
on, chatting for a bit, longer when the sun shines.
That will
make a big difference, warmer weather and less restrictions will be a
marvellous combination.
There is
light at the end of the tunnel, infection rates are declining and more of my
friends are getting vaccinated every week. Soon we will be able to emerge like
butterflies.
I’m certain
I won’t have forgotten my people skills but breaking out will still be
tentative.
Some people
are incredibly anxious about going out into the big wide world again and
although I worry that I might be turning into an introvert just writing these
thoughts down have made me realise I will inevitably blossom again in the
milder weather.
Youngest son
recently went back to uni so my life is obviously different with only me to
consider. This is a time to be selfish, do what I want and if that is stay in,
snuggle under a blanket and read a book or 2 or 3 or 4 so be it!
Life is full
of ups and downs and there have been several valleys for me, particularly in
the last three years. This will pass, I’ve been through much worse.
But I do pray
for those who are really struggling and are fearful of what happens next. Hopefully
thinking through my own muddled thoughts will help me develop more empathy and compassion.
Whether you
are an introvert, extrovert or somewhere in between I think we are all going to
need plenty of kindness in the coming months.
