If we introverts ran the world, it would no doubt be a calmer, saner, more peaceful sort of place. As Coolidge is supposed to have said, "Don't you know that four fifths of all our troubles in this life would disappear if we would just sit down and keep still?" (He is also supposed to have said, "If you don't say anything, you won't be called on to repeat it." The only thing a true introvert dislikes more than talking about himself is repeating himself.)
I'm quite certain if I could run my home the way I want, it would "no doubt be a calmer, saner, more peaceful sort of place," too! The last line is so telling of me ... I cannot stand to repeat myself. That's a challenge in raising kids, who need constant repetition of ideas and directions.
There are plenty of moments where I come out of my shell and lead, too. It's just that those types of activities do take a 'lot' out of me. I'm so thankful for the break from leading the women's group at my church this year, and am also thankful for the current break from teaching our NFP class.
I also need and crave down time where I'm alone. Though as a mother I can -and do- sacrifice quite a bit of myself through homeschooling, involvement outside the home, and constant 'doing/touching' for the kids, at some point I need take care of myself, too. I am more peaceful, calm, and patient when I've been able to re-charge during a bit of alone time.
At least two of my children require time alone, too. I'm careful to give them the opportunity for quiet play or reading time.
I find it such an interesting subject. I am amazed at how so many extroverts have the attitude that if you are not like them, you are wierd or something. (I can tell people think that about Tom)
ReplyDeleteI have to confess, (actually, you probably already know this), that I am one of those obnoxious extroverts who can't figure out why everyone isn't as talkative and loud as me.
ReplyDelete[blush]
I'm always wondering if I'm talking too much (probably) or am just not that funny (again, probably) when what I should REALLY be doing is letting people be people.
Keeping still once in awhile wouldn't hurt either.
Margaret and Jamie, if there weren't a mix of personalities (introverts and extroverts) in the world, it would be a dull place indeed. We were each created, with our strenths and weaknesses, for a reason. I've always believed that as we grow and mature from childhood, we are tempered or molded so that we overcome our weaknesses and learn to temper our strengths and use them for the greatest good.
ReplyDeleteI haven't talked to your husband often, Jamie, but I like him ... he seems calm to me. It doesn't bother me that he is quiet or doesn't jump into conversations (our conversation topics really aren't 'manly' anyway!).