“I have always been an introvert who learned to play the role of an extrovert.”

I think this is just an incredible and powerful phrase that I think a lot of people will be able to relate to you on, whether they know it or not. Everyone has their demons and our pasts. It’s always when we’re by ourselves and our minds are stirring that it’s the worst. And we almost always universally try to hide it. Many, many people, just like you, Gretchen, chose to not only hide it but drown out any and all your pain. I tend to dwell a lot — but I can see there being no point because we can’t change our pasts and it really makes no sense, but it’s much easier said than practiced.

Good luck!