When I was a little girl, I was described as being shy. That became a major part of my personality and an excuse to not do things. I used to blush when people spoke to me. I was scared to go to social gatherings. These days I back myself to do things. I still get triggered. It’s familiar to make myself small. But there comes a time when you can’t let it rule your life. Practice and permitting myself to take up space have made it easier to be visible. I've stopped hiding from living.