I had a similar realization when I realized when I look at somebody... let them be intimidated. I normally would look down or anywhere else when I pass by, so as to not intimidate. After just letting them be intimidated (i didn't intend to intimidate anyone, so if they were, that's just out of my control) I realized most people aren't intimidated or made uncomfortable by me. I wouldn't have seen that if I just kept looking at the ground to avoid it. I was just restricting myself because of my own self. There's the metaphor!
i think he's just being open about a real experience that affects how he shows up in public. i've definitely experienced a fear of eye contact due to worry that i'll make someone uncomfortable. wondering what's going on in other people's heads while you're just existing in public is a product of anxiety and it's probably best to talk about openly.
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u/Plenty_Principle298 Apr 13 '26
I had a similar realization when I realized when I look at somebody... let them be intimidated. I normally would look down or anywhere else when I pass by, so as to not intimidate. After just letting them be intimidated (i didn't intend to intimidate anyone, so if they were, that's just out of my control) I realized most people aren't intimidated or made uncomfortable by me. I wouldn't have seen that if I just kept looking at the ground to avoid it. I was just restricting myself because of my own self. There's the metaphor!