Your personal rant is very welcome. It is very comforting to hear your thoughts on the matter. You sound like you climb mountains which is nothing but commendable and inspirational. “We are not worthy!” and we absolutely love Kitty Calhoun (I think I should have said that last bit in my head only) Do what you love, love what you do. I think the men would prefer women to be all jam and Jerusalem. And all the good ones are unusually silent and ride with it. You are absolutely right; women are better at building communities and being supportive. We listen willingly to each other and hold space for everything we feel.

Hey Christine Coincidentally, I was climbing the walls today when I went into a room and whatever I went in there for had completely escaped me. You’ve got to laugh to stop from crying every time that happens, c'est la vie. Never did remember what it was. Your message did make me giggle because of that. So yes, I could probably do with a, get out of my head climb. It is a really great idea. But not really a social event for me. I have never come across a lesbian social bouldering get-together. Something to look out for. There is a small climbing centre near me but the crowd is quite young and it is a bit pricey. There is a bigger venue but it is a bit of a trek.  

I shall see if I can get hold of a copy.

I agree with you, most people aren’t naturally like that. But I don’t think people take it as them being disingenuous when they present as gregarious. It is probably seen as trying a little too hard, if noticed. But how exhausting that must be. I am quite wary of self-help books in general. They have the hypnotic buy-in down to an art. Too sceptical to read them. Is “Quiet” an insight into introverts? Might be interesting. Wait! Why didn’t you finish it?  I can get carried away with the minutia of a lot of things but if a book waffles or is too dry, I can’t stay with it. Life’s too short.    

Hey Katie You always lean in with love and offer reassurance. Honestly, its much appreciated. As I said, I am still trying. I’ll get there eventually. It’s not easy but necessary.  I am still in awe of the people who do social connection in all settings with ease. I think it is called the Goldilocks effect. They just have that confidence. Is it years of experience or is it natural? Who knows? Well, they might. Fake it, till you make it? Not really a fan of that cliché. I guess we are all trying. Any way, I like to think everyone who attends these events, goes in hopeful, thinking “We already like you,” about everyone they meet. Because we are all there with the same premise. Hoping to come out the other end a little happier and a little less alone.             

Hi Katie, Pioneer woman, brave new world. Keep throwing the darts, I do know what you mean. If necessity is the mother of invention, with your reinvention, I guess you’ll be mother and pour the tea. A sense of purpose may be derailed by unfortunate little setbacks, it means conceding that we are inconveniently vulnerable. But there is strength in vulnerability and all journeys start somewhere.