People laugh when I tell them I am an introvert. I am dead serious, yet they laugh and snort at me. They confuse “shy” with introvert. I am not shy. I know how to defend myself. I can talk to strangers easily. I have social skills. Anyone who has met me knows I LOVE to talk. I am an introvert. I like people but I also need to be alone. As a charismatic introvert, getting along with others is a priority, but it tires me. After a day of smiling, chatting, and seeing to the needs of others, I go home exhausted. I can go for days (and have) without needing the proximity of another living being, animal or human. I choose my friends with great care. If you have gained my favor (not necessarily my confidence), I am fiercely loyal. But I have been known to disown family and friends. They cease to exist in my circle. It takes a lot to lose my friendship, so it should not be a great surprise to those who do. They only have to look at themselves and how they treated me to