Comments on: The Alphabet of Grace: Q is for Quiet

By: Erin

Erin — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 18:51:34 +0000

I wonder if Jesus was an introvert. I always imagined him as the extreme of both introvert and extrovert. He had the Jews very competent and possibly thinking they knew everything about the ways of God, the world affairs and people. Then I think of how at times Jesus looked as if he could learn all about “techniques and strategy” then he would be a pro. But it “appeared” he was only taking bits and pieces of the whole. When I read about Jesus, how he can read behavior, listen to words, and understand the whole person- history, future “pastures” and present issues. I can see why he often retreated to pray. Was he overwhelmed knowing the nature of people and systems, divisions, and appearance? He seemed to understand differences but integrate into whole.

By: Jane D

Jane D — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 04:47:47 +0000

Lovely, I enjoyed Susan’s book a number of years ago and gave copies to my introverted friends. They’ve never said anything about it, but I know they loved the book. Mike, when you write we read your thoughts, so it can seem loud and extroverted from over here (elsewhere), it’s good to be reminded that the voices of introverts are many of the voices in the books (blogs) we love. I’m part of a creative community – when I am required to travel – which I love and hate – I love being with people, and I find myself with my mouth closed most of the time (because I hate having to talk when it’s all small-talk, ice breakers, give an opinion which we will ignore because it’s only an ice-breaker – so exhausting).
Perhaps that wasn’t failing. Perhaps after COVID, I will venture out again and not loathe my quiet so much.
Bless you.

By: Erin

Erin — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 23:05:48 +0000

There are plenty of prophets and kings who would have given their right arm to see what you are seeing but never got so much as a glimpse, to hear what you are hearing but never got so much as a whisper. Luke 10:24

By: Michael Frost

Michael Frost — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 22:58:24 +0000

In reply to Cheryl Lansdown. Your birth name was Cheryl Vague?!?! That is hilarious.

By: Ada V.

Ada V. — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 17:23:41 +0000

I also responded “Nothing” when people asked what I was thinking, simply because I’m usually thinking of so much I don’t know what to say!
But now I’ll usually say I’m thinking about a story I’m writing. And sometimes that can start a conversation.
I’d say I’m an introvert,but that depends on who I’m with. With close friends I can be very talkative & outgoing.
But at meetings or places where I don’t know people, I’ll be quiet.
But I definitely get my energy from being alone. That’s how I re-charge.

By: Ada

Ada — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 17:14:33 +0000

In reply to Cheryl Lansdown. That is hillarious! Funny how the world goes.

By: Cheryl Lansdown

Cheryl Lansdown — Sun, 10 Jan 2021 07:05:18 +0000

Hi Mike, Prior to Covid, I would say I was more extrovert than introvert but I suspect the weighting has now reversed given our enforced ‘stay-ins’ here in Victoria. However, my main point for writing was because I found myself having a giggle right from the outset reading this, as my maiden name is .. Vague! Yep! And I do relate to your descriptions 🙂

By: Rae McKinlay

Rae McKinlay — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 10:51:47 +0000

Thank you Mike for your insightful article. I tied myself up into knots trying to fit the extroversion model and ended up sick. However, slowly God restored me. I have come to terms that I am an introvert with a few superpowers.

By: Heidi

Heidi — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 23:53:36 +0000

Thank you Mike, that’s a really affirming post. I’ve often struggled with my introvertedness when in various circles, so your words are very encouraging. I might have to get a hold of Cain’s book :-).

By: Jill

Jill — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 22:35:23 +0000

In reply to Jill. Actually, I think the arty word may be ‘ representational’ rather than ‘ representative’. Yup, clearly thinking too much, an earthly Father may say!