I own "being nervous".

[oak]

Like being told (yes, told) "to just relax", I wholly reject being shamed, however much, for "being nervous" or "acting nervous".

A Quote from a Deceptively Deep Film

"The most grown up thing you can do is fail at things you really care about." -Unicorn Store (2017 film)

One Experience That Illustrates

Years ago I was good-naturedly chided, long after we all got accepted and into our programs, for my "nervousness" during my graduate school interviews, which included the all-important graduate assistantship (GA) interviews.

If one didn't get a GA, in practice there was no academic spot, and if one got a GA and had the academic record, the GA would pay for all tuition, and provide a stipend and experience.

While so ostensibly "nervous" at GA weekend, I was working a toxic third shift big box stocking job, minimum wage. It was me and the keyholder, and the keyholder hated me. I knew very well what the stakes were for getting a GA.

A Thought

I think "being nervous" or "acting nervous" is one of the most honest things one can do, and one of the most brave.

Someone "acting nervous" always has excellent reason to do so!

[manuel_moe_g]

Accepting yourself for being human, good stuff.

[Beany Boo]

It’s absolutely reasonable to feel that you’re being manipulated by that phrase, particularly when it’s used by someone who is a stranger in a position of authority upon whom you depend.

You’re right to feel deeply indignant. How else are you supposed to feel?

[oak]

@Manuel Moe: Thank you for your encouragement. It came at the perfect time: at the end of a long day, at the end of a long week. You're a true friend.

@BeanyBoo: And Manuel Moe, isn't it a treat to have a good friend like BeanyBoo here? Another gem of wisdom. Thank you, BeanyBoo!

In addition to the thanks above, if I may friends, since this is rattling around in my brain:

I am doing well. But on the most knife's-edge, teeter totter way. Like I've said before, I am holding on, but barely. But I am holding on, and am making it. My mind races more often than I care to admit.

Thanks for listening. There's more I could say, but I'll leave that there.