Just Shy of Acceptable.

Is your child shy?  If so, does is it make you uncomfortable in social situations?  I mean, do you feel obliged to make excuses? 

I do, and I feel bad about it.  I'm wondering though, is it my problem, or does society expect too much?  Speaking for myself...

I feel pressure when my child doesn't acknowledge people with a smile, or hint of recognition, because I know they want it!

They want giggles and gleaming eyes, outward affection.

So, in response to their unspoken disappointment, I make excuses. 

Ones like:

"He's usually not this quiet," or...

"It just takes him a little time."

I feel ashamed of this mommy behavior, and I want to change it.  My child isn't justifying my personality traits, or my awkwardness.

My boy is who he is, and he's sure proud of it!

Most likely, I'm the one with silence issues, and it's my social anxiety reering its nasty head, but it's something to think about.

I just appreciate the honesty my child exhibits, and I think I stand to learn from it.  When a stranger gets in Aksel's face, he doesn't react based on society's expectations.  He responds truthfully, in accordance to his own comfort.  Whatever that might be?

My boy is independent, and contentedly shy.