Shyness

Hello. I’m Shyness. You might have felt me before—that little flutter in your tummy when you have to speak in front of the class, or the way you suddenly find your shoes very interesting when a new kid says 'hi' at recess. I am that feeling of being a little nervous or unsure around new people or in new situations. I’m not here to be mean or to hold you back on purpose. Sometimes, I’m just trying to keep you safe from saying or doing something you might regret later on. But I know I can also make it hard to make new friends or try exciting new things. I can make your voice quiet and your feet feel heavy, even when you want to run and play.

I remember being with a girl named Maya on her first day of 4th grade. She stood by the edge of the playground, watching a group of kids play a lively game of kickball. She wanted to join them more than anything, but I made her feet feel like they were stuck to the pavement. But then, Maya did something powerful. She took a deep breath and remembered that she could start small. Instead of running right into the middle of the game, she walked over to another kid who was also watching from the side. She pointed and said, 'That was a good kick.' That one small step made her feel a little braver. The very next day, on September 12th, she walked up to the group and asked if she could play, and they said yes. I was still there with her, but my voice was much quieter. I learned that I don't have to be in charge all the time, and helping someone take one small, brave step is a way I can help them grow.