Shyness. I’ll admit I was pretty shy as a kid. But as I started handling my own affairs, things changed and I became more talkative. The catch is, sometimes if the other person doesn’t speak up, I don’t either. Once we get going, we end up talking like we’ve been friends for years — by the second conversation with someone, I can usually get things rolling.

Being shy and timid can cost you a lot. Be outgoing. By “don’t be shy” I don’t mean “be shameless” — you’ll find the balance. Unbalanced energy can blow up and leave lasting damage. What I mean is: don’t be afraid to speak up in a group. If you have an idea, voice it. Don’t worry that people will laugh or make fun of you — though if you’re constantly cracking jokes, they might 😀 I’m saying don’t be timid and do speak up, but in moderation; knowing when to stay quiet is part of it. Talking too much can tire people out. Beyond that, whoever you’re talking to, take them seriously. If you take them seriously, they’ll take you seriously.

If you are shy and timid, you may have brushed away opportunities — knowingly or not. An opportunity comes your way and you lose it through laziness or shyness or timidity — and then for the rest of your life you might end up spinning your wheels with “why didn’t I say it, why didn’t I do it.”

Last word: don’t be shy. But don’t be shameless either. Don’t miss opportunities. Stay well. Peace be with you.