I think we were both shy and an introvert, but have blossomed through others.

We were an introvert through high school, but that's because we were bashed. Since then though, we had others emerge made to deal with public life. The quiet ones are still here, but they don't present much anymore. Some of us others finally grew up, too.

We are private and don't let anyone into our thinking. But if we do, it's only those things that are approved for public viewing- drinking tends to cloud this judgement. :P

Maybe writing that paper from your unique perspective can earn you bonus! Instead of the droll of normal people thinking which is something that you sound like you are having a problem with...singular thinking. Just a thought!