I have often found myself to be on the outside of situations looking in...wishing to be a part of the "in" group. I wasn't a cheerleader, not popular, wasn't the one with the big personality and the ability to draw people to me. Even though I've performed as a musician, taught as a teacher and given speeches throughout my life, my personality still tended to hold me back. I was the quiet one, hugging the wall or the corner of the couch. If I had a stage or microphone, I was usually okay, but as soon as I stepped offstage, my nerves and fears would overtake me. It was what I knew and where I was most comfortable--yet I often longed to be the one in the middle of the action. I have struggled in my life to overcome my natural tendency to blend in with the wallpaper and to learn instead, to step forward, speak up, introduce myself and stand out in the crowd. I still really stink at that ability, but I'm learning...slowly. But this post isn't about me f...