My late uncle, Barry Mill, used to say to my cousin Heather, “Open mouth, insert foot,” when she spoke before thinking. Beyond the amusing visual that it inspired, it is a good description of what sometimes happens when I speak. I am absolutely not trying to be ambiguous. But I am not a skilled conversationalist, and, too often, it seems like I am misunderstood.

Masking does not help with this. I don’t mumble, but I am generally soft spoken (my boys would disagree), and with a mask on, it seems some of what I say gets lost. I have noticed others have the same issue with masks muffling their words. That’s a small price to pay for some protection from COVID.

It seems this is in part an introvert issue. Other introverts have agreed with me that it is just easier to communicate clearly when writing versus speaking. Of course, thoughtful writing does not have the same pace as conversation. When I write, I can read it over and make adjustments.

At home, the problem is not as apparent. If my kids don’t respond to my words, they are likely ignoring me. Although Erick sometimes listens to my tone instead of my words. That drives me nuts. As any mom knows, at home you will find you have to repeat yourself a lot.

My communication outside of home is quite limited. My family members know I don’t like to make phone calls. If I do, it’s likely an emergency. I mainly text the people closest to me. Sometimes they even text me back.

Then there’s Covid brain fog. Thankfully, it seems to have passed. Brain fog left me struggling to find words, frustrating because sometimes I knew what I wanted to say, but the words were just lost.

My ex used to get frustrated with me when I responded slowly. He did not understand I was counting to 10 in my head, while looking for words that would not upset him.

So verbal communication is not my forte. I don’t really mind much. I would much rather write than speak. And speaking less means I listen more. I learn a lot that way. So here’s to the introverts: know I am smiling with you.