The introvert's dilemma

Christ gave all despite His discomforts | Tony Woodlief

Illustration by Krieg Barrie

If there were a pill that could induce unconsiousness when the stewardess begins to demonstrate how seatbelts work, and instant alertness when the airplane reaches my destination, I would gladly take it. Don't get me wrong—I enjoy the feel of takeoff, and the sublime peace that comes with surveying billowy clouds from 40,000 feet. My problem is my fellow man. I once read that psychopathic killers feel like their personal space is violated if anyone gets within 20 feet of them. I have not killed anyone—yet—but I can empathize.

Perhaps it's all these children. You parents will know what I mean; after a day of being pawed at and tackled and climbed upon by a passel of urchins, you want, more than anything else, not to be touched. It isn't something you'll find in those parent-to-be books.