CLICK HERE FOR BLOGGER TEMPLATES AND MYSPACE LAYOUTS »

Friday, May 16, 2008

Have you ever walked into a room full of people and realized that you didn't know anyone? How did you feel? Usually, when I am in that situation I feel small and lonely. This happened to me on
Wednesday. I was invited to a luncheon for the caregivers of wounded warriors. It was a small group of about 20 women and I arrived late because of another meeting I had that morning. As I walked in, I felt all eyes on me. I felt the normal spotlight that I feel when I am in uncomfortable situations. I felt like everyone was wondering who I was and what I was doing there. Why I thought I belonged in their group. And then, somehow, my thoughts changed. Instead of Oh, no! I don't know anyone! I thought, interesting. I don't know anyone. I realized that no one in that room knew that I was shy and awkward when I am meeting new people. That is is so hard for me to strike up a conversation with new people, or even people that I am acquainted with. So, I decided that I wasn't going to be that person. After we started eating our delicious lunch, I went to say hello to the lady running the meeting and appologize for coming in late. She said that she was just glad I could make it, and instead of thinking she was just being nice, I chose to believe what she said. Then, I sat at my table with two complete stranger who obviously didn't know each other either because there was an uncomfortable silence. So, I started a conversation with them. Everyone soon found out what a small world it is and how closely connected we were. The other two at the table were MySpace friends that had never met or even saw a picture of the other. Then, the speakers started and I put in my questions and comments when I really felt like I wanted to. The last speaker told us all about the life of C.S. Lewis. He had a very difficult life but through it all came back to God. He told us that Jesus died for us and we can all turn to him. But, this was on a military base, so he had to say it in a way that was not offensive. He just told about Lewis's life and how he coped with the heartache and loss he experienced. I was really touched at the gentle way he presented the gospel to these hurting women. So, after the meeting was over, I shook his hand and told him so. As I walked back to my car with my new acquaintances and (awsome) door prizes, I wondered who this person was. This person I became during this meeting where I knew noone. I like her. I am going to have her around more often.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

it's nice, that feeling of not being limited by your reputation -- something hard to escape in this small town. What were the prizes?

The Army of Allmans said...

Wow- I am proud of you, wish I could be the same sometimes. I think most all women feel that way when they walk in a room. I will take your advice and try to be more outgoing the next time I have a similar situation. I want to know what you won too! Lanessa

Anonymous said...

Good for you! I am so proud of you!! I truely hope that you can have that new person around more often!! Now that you know that you can be more outgoing, you just have to remember that the next time you meet that mean old spotlight!! Way to go!!!

the dragonfly said...

Good for you!! That's hard to do, to not let our "limitations" limit us (does that make sense?!?)...I'm impressed. :)

Kat said...

I have a hard time in those situations sometimes, and then other times I surprise myself.
Great job and great post!