Ask Baba Yaga: I Feel Like I’m Underwater When I Try to Socialize

Transcript after the jump.

Dear Baba Yaga,

I can’t socialize anymore. I will stand with a group of friends and feel like I’m underwater while they talk and giggle. I don’t know what to say, and when they look at me I am terrified they are sensing my weirdness and it will push them away. I used to be bubbly and know how to have fun. Now I’m worried nobody could possibly want to be my friend. How do I join my friends and loved ones on the surface?

BABA YAGA:

Forget about the others. :What you need is something else now. You need to ask; yourself — Why am I underwater? & deal with this & meanwhiles the others will wait. No one pays attention to a quiet creek ; likely few have noticed yr still surface. & those who have & who love you will stand near & know you in yr new way, as long as it lasts.) They , will be the ones who matter. But do not flail & gasp on their account — you will only swallow water, & drown deeper. :Look to see what, it is that pushed you down,& hold yr breath for now.

Previously: “What Happens If Everything I’ve Ever Wanted Comes True?”

Taisia Kitaiskaia is a poet, writer, and Michener Center for Writers fellow. She’s taking questions on behalf of Baba Yaga at [email protected].