outta my shell

I'm an introvert. Always have been. Always will be.

But I've become a much more extroverted introvert.

I love people! I thrive on authentic relationships. And while that's always been true, it's definitely something I've grown more passionate about.

I've never been one to have a lot of friends.

Growing up, I was the ultra "good girl", always made honor roll, and wasn't athletic---and none of that, as we know, makes a girl popular. And I was completely okay with that. I didn't want to be popular (still don't!), and I shied away from anything that drew attention (still do!). I was perfectly content with a small group of close friends.

I still value few and close over many and distant. And yet...

I honestly have more friends now than I've ever had in my entire life.

It freaks me out a little bit.

In a good way.

It amazes me that God has brought so many incredible people into my life. It's overwhelming and humbling.

I find myself comfortable in my relationships in a way that is all new to me.

I feel like that statement may not make sense outside my brain, which is unfortunate because it makes so much sense inside it!

I guess what I'm trying to say is this:

I'm grateful I'm not as introverted as I used to be, and I'm thankful for the ways God has used friendships to make my life richer.

And though sometimes I still don't like to admit it, I actually really enjoy my moments of extroversion.

As long as I get some space and solitude afterward.