Introvert or Extrovert

I am an introvert, but I am not particularly shy or withdrawn. So many people equate shyness or stand-offishness with being an introvert. They are not the same.

Extroverts get their internal batteries recharged by being around others; they feed off the energy in the room and the stimulation of the situation. I imagine the recent lockdown was traumatic for them because when they are without stimulation for long periods, they get worn down and start getting anxious and depressed. Introverts are the opposite. Too much stimulation for long periods is wearing on our nerves. Anxiety and depression set in, and we have to get away. The lockdown was a relief. No more did I have to go to the office every day. I did not have to deal with the grocery store, meetings, or chance encounters. The only thing I missed during the shutdown was going to church. Meeting together with fellow believers and worshipping together. Thankfully we only missed four weeks. (One week was Resurrection Sunday, which was awful!).

I recently had houseguests for two weeks. It was wonderful to have them, and I would not have missed the opportunity for anything, but it was taxing. I never got to be alone and never fully recharged my batteries. It sounds terrible, but I was happy to drop them off and drive home alone. To have a bit of "me" time. That might sound selfish, but for an introvert, it is crucial to survival. My mom is the only person I can be around and still recharge. Perhaps it is because I do not feel like I have to be "on." 

We are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of our Creator God (Ps 139:14; Gen. 1:27) . Whether we are extroverts or introverts, we are exactly how we are supposed to be created. It is astonishing how creative God is! Look at all the personality types in your family and circle of friends. How boring it would be if we were all alike. 

Of course, most of us fall in the middle of the introvert/extrovert spectrum. People who are constantly manic or reclusive are in danger of mental illness. God wants us to enjoy each other, but He also wants us to enjoy Him quietly. God gets our attention best when we are alone – look at Moses and the burning bush. Jacob in a wrestling match, or Jesus in the wilderness.

Introverts, understand that your more outgoing family and friends need stimulation to feel alive! They need to be around others and have activities planned. Extroverts, your loner friends want to go out and have fun too. However, they cannot work all week and go out on both weekend days. They need downtime to get charged for the new week.

Have grace with each other and enjoy the differences!

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for making each of us in Your image

yet so different from each other.

Help us to show mercy and grace to those

We might not understand.

Teach us, Lord

to come before you in quiet adoration and worship

and shouting joyful praise and thanksgiving

We love You and pray in Jesus name

Amen