"I did join a club that has to do with something I'm very passionate about, but I couldn't even talk to people there. My mom says that's strange and it really is. If I can't even talk to people who have the same interests as I do, I don't think this is going to get better. Ever.[/QUOTE]"

Well... I too am very shy, and I agree, it may not get better or easier to approach people, at least at first. You say you could not talk at the club you went to, but at this point, does that matter? Sometimes just going along and listening is good for you and good for the club because they have people like you and me for membership. Not everyone has to be a talker... just imagine if everyone talked all the time?? what a noisy world. And in the meantime, you are out of the house and interacting at least a little bit with other people and learning about stuff you like.

There is nothing wrong with just sitting and waiting for the time when you are comfortable enough with being there, and actually have something to say. Trying to say something before either of those things happens just won't work. I suggest you just keep going along, not trying to say anything, but listen and learn and just get used to being with other people. Maybe try out just making eye contact with some regulars that say things you like, and maybe try a little smile... even if you have to look away straight away afterwards and yes, even if you feel embarrassed.... a smile connects you with other people... lets them know you see them... and may lead to them saying hello next time.

I think us shy people sometimes forget that because we just sit and say nothing that we tend to become invisible to people around us. This really hurts our selfesteem because then we think we are not worth seeing. Not so.
Just be patient with yourself. Shy people are actually really worthwhile friends because we are great listeners, we think before we speak, and we are gentle and caring. Here is a trick I use...why not look around you for other quiet, shy people who like you might be feeling really out of things? maybe all they need is for someone like you, who knows what loneliness feels like, to smile and say hello?