Good afternoon guys, as a newbie am here share a little bit of younger self
When I look back on my younger years, it reminded me of my shyness and how timid I used to be. I was an introvert who preferred the comfort of being alone to the in the mist of social interactions. My comfort zone was a quiet one, where I could run away from the world and hide behind the darkness of silence.
In class, I was the who stays at last seat of the classroom just behind my classmates, praying and hoping that the teacher won't call on me. The thought of answering questions in front of everyone made my heart skip a beat, and prefer to pretend to be invisible. I didn't like engaging in conversations, or debate fearing that I'd say something wrong or punished. I hated quarrel and fights, not that I can't stand up for myself, but just because I don't know how to express my feelings without bursting into tears.
I don't have much friends, and those I did have then were my fellow church girls who shared my love for quiet contemplation and prayer. I found peace in the church, where I could be alone with my thoughts and communicate with God. But even in those quiet moments, I struggled with low self-esteem and shyness. I felt lonely and isolated, locking myself away from the world and hiding behind my fears.
If I could talk to my younger self, i will say be careful, yes. Don't let your shyness and low self-esteem make you an easy prey. Speak out when you're in danger, and don't be afraid to say no. You deserve to be safe and respected, and it's okay to stand up for yourself.
I will tell myself to be more careful around people, not to trust anyone for my to trust my safety and also remind myself that it's okay to say no, to set boundaries and protect yourself from harm. And to encourage myself to speak out, to find my voice and use it to express my feelings and needs.
Looking back, I realize that I was just trying to drive the world in my own way, at my own pace. But I wish I could go back and tell myself to be more careful, to prioritize my safety and well-being. I wish I could tell myself to speak out, to find my voice and use it to stand up for myself.