Re: [jamie/louis]
I was. Being studious was something I was good at, at least. I was never particularly skilled at sports, though I held my own enough not to be a complete laughing stock. Skipping is a little trickier at a boarding school, unfortunately, but I did manage it a few times. I was much too afraid of authority to do it on a regular basis. You were a bit of a rebel, then?
My self-confidence is slowly on the mend, and I am trying to be the first to talk more often these days. Old habits, you understand - but you're right. I inflate the risk in my mind well out of proportion.
Do you think you could list all the wonderful things about you, on the spot, if pressed? I wonder if I am uniquely embarrassed and self-conscious, or if most people would be.