People who know what a chatterbox I am would be shocked to know how nervous I am to meet new people and be in a new situation. Once I get to know you, I’ll talk your ear off, but in a new situation I try to blend into the nearest wall. According to the multiple Myers-Briggs tests I’ve taken, I’m borderline extrovert/introvert. My sister laughs when I say it, accusing me of fudging my answers.
And it’s just gotten worse since I had to start using mobility aids. The cane and the AFO weren’t as big of a deal as my rollator is now. But now that I have a rollator, I don’t feel like I make a good first impression. People see the rollator and perceive me as week. Maybe they do, maybe they don’t, but I think they do.
I had to deal with one of those new situations yesterday. My older son is going to middle school next year and had to take a math placement test. While he took the test, my husband and I met with some other parents and PTAA representatives to learn about the school. I was waiting for my husband in the lobby when parents came flooding into the area. Fortunately, I quickly saw someone I knew, and she came over to talk to me until my husband got there. While we were in the classroom, I sat there and realized I was in friendly territory. When we walked to pick up our kids and spend money in the student store, I met and talked to a number of people. By the time we left, people had invited us to sit with them at the upcoming World Language dinner, since our children would be taking German together. So even though I was nervous, it worked out well in the end.
Sure, new situations can cause fear. Sure, new situations can be challenging when you need to find the ramps instead of just heading up the nearest ramps. Sure, walking and talking isn’t really an option when you’re so much slower than anyone else. But as long as you’re willing to stick your neck out, you can still be a part of the experience.
