Tolerance is a difficult virtue to possess, as it is so easy to react to anything and everything. But sometimes, it is better to speak out and clear the air rather than let misconceptions linger. And that is precisely what i intend to do about this perception that Sumanth is very silent. Of course, I’m better at listening than talking (and thank goodness for those who possess this trait, else motormouths would reign and evolution would render ears vestigial). But that doesn’t mean I’m a professional in silence! (apparently, that’s what someone thought about me). Unfortunately,stereotypical perceptions can be hard to break. It is typical treatment by a majority against a minority; non-conformity does not find acceptance (this is normal behaviour in nature, but given that we are capable of feeling complex emotions, there is an expectation of greater understanding). Silence used to be golden. Though current gold prices are high, it seems there is an even higher price to be paid for keeping quiet! Indeed, it is the era of loudmouths. There needs to be a balance; listen and talk when needed. This is exactly what I’m good at; unfortunately this quality goes unrecognized amid all the chatter. And I get unjustly labelled.
Another insinuation often levelled against me is that I’m shy. A most inglorious judgement. I agree, I’m not a vivacious person by any stretch of the imagination. But the right word to use is introverted. Shyness is difficulty in communication mainly due to fear, while introverts keep to themselves out of choice. I know so many people who are extroverted yet express stage fear (having to give a speech, presentation, etc) even when its not their first time. While I don’t have this fear, I cannot say with certainty that most or all introverts do not as well, but the point I’m making is the distinction between being shy and introverted (psychologists have seconded this). Also infuriating is the way introversion is looked down upon, as if it were a crime. Being drawn inwards toward oneself should not be equated with narcissism. It is my interest how much I want to interact with people. But given the inherent nature of society, this usually means being outcast or isolated most of the time, a ‘verdict’ I neither need to accept nor reject. I cannot shout from the rooftops declaring these facts. But why not use technology to let your point of view be heard? An effortless means of communication. Hence this article. Perhaps it may strike a chord with someone out there.
Another insinuation often levelled against me is that I’m shy. A most inglorious judgement. I agree, I’m not a vivacious person by any stretch of the imagination. But the right word to use is introverted. Shyness is difficulty in communication mainly due to fear, while introverts keep to themselves out of choice. I know so many people who are extroverted yet express stage fear (having to give a speech, presentation, etc) even when its not their first time. While I don’t have this fear, I cannot say with certainty that most or all introverts do not as well, but the point I’m making is the distinction between being shy and introverted (psychologists have seconded this). Also infuriating is the way introversion is looked down upon, as if it were a crime. Being drawn inwards toward oneself should not be equated with narcissism. It is my interest how much I want to interact with people. But given the inherent nature of society, this usually means being outcast or isolated most of the time, a ‘verdict’ I neither need to accept nor reject. I cannot shout from the rooftops declaring these facts. But why not use technology to let your point of view be heard? An effortless means of communication. Hence this article. Perhaps it may strike a chord with someone out there.