It’s always the quiet ones

I find it fascinating how reading and the Internet allows people to find others they have much in common with, whether in personality, interests, goals, or other areas. It makes people feel a little less misunderstood and alone. Hence my interest in the article “Caring for Your Introvert”.

Do you know someone who needs hours alone every day? Who loves quiet conversations about feelings or ideas, and can give a dynamite presentation to a big audience, but seems awkward in groups and maladroit at small talk? Who has to be dragged to parties and then needs the rest of the day to recuperate? Who growls or scowls or grunts or winces when accosted with pleasantries by people who are just trying to be nice?

The article is an superbly written explanation of introversion, what it means to be an introvert in such an extroverted society, ways in which we are commonly misunderstood, and even a funny section on letting the introvert in your life know that you support him. Actually, the entire article is written in a funny, relaxed tone that keeps it from becoming a bitter diatribe or a rant against extroverts. Despite the calm manner of delivery (or should I say, the lack of sensationalism apparently so craved in articles these days), it keeps the attention, through and through.