Quote Originally Posted by bacarver View Post
Anxiety disorders are common, but I feel like an alien at times. I've recently had a very difficult set back after years of doing really well...
Connecting with others helps me feel better.
If anyone is willing to share even if through private messages, I can provide more information.
If not, thanks for listening, TE.

Barb
Hi Barb,

YES! I relate very well to what you're saying. I've been painfully shy my whole life. I guess things have gotten a *little* easier the older I've gotten but in some situations, at least, not by much.

A few years ago (well, about 10 years ago) my kids were all entering their teen years and it occurred to me that except for a few friends I had known since grade school I really didn't have much of a social network. My DH traveled a lot with his job and our kids (three boys, including a set of twins) kept me pretty busy and close to home. I was fine with that until I hit me that before long our kids would be grown and gone and if I didn't get out and meet people I'd be sitting alone waiting for the kids to phone home.

So, I basically FORCED myself to join a local quilt guild (my second passion...after biking ). I was nervous as all get-out and didn't know a soul. Then I FORCED myself to volunteer for a committee or two and did meet some women whom I now consider good friends. The guild-thing only lasted a few years, though. Loved the quilts and many of the people. HATED the politics. Still have the friends, though I haven't been able to talk any of them into becoming bikers, mores the pity.

Guess I always have been and always will be somewhat of a loner and not much of a joiner and there's nothing wrong with that. It's just who I am, though it does bother me once in a while. I suppose it's one reason why I love biking. I like being alone with my thoughts. When I'm out on my bike I think very deep thoughts. LOL! I do look at people I know who are very gregarious and have an easy way with people and wish I could be more like them, though. Life seems to be so much easier for them but then I guess the grass is always greener, right?

Thank goodness for the internet. It's a wonderful way to interact with people you wouldn't otherwise ever know.

Jane