Can You Write?

The first week of college;
New place, new faces, awkward first conversations, silent observations.
We were asked to register for something called 'The most promising fresher.'
Our seniors judged us on our communication skills and talent.
In the first round of the screening process, I was asked to give a creative introduction about myself followed by a talent round.
A lot of people sang, danced and even beatboxed.
I wasn't that kind of a person who'd enter a room and boom their greetings.
I finished my short intro.
"What's your talent?" someone from the judges asked.
"I can write," I replied.
They didn't seem impressed.
I was interrupted, "Can you narrate a story?"
"My stories are kind of big, but I'll try to be brief..."
I was interrupted again, "We don't have much time, do you have any other talents?"
"No," I replied.
"Thank you. Who's next?"
I felt dejected.
The list of students who were shortlisted for the next round was put up the next day.
I wasn't surprised when my name wasn't there.
There will be many occasions when your talent isn't recognized.
There will be many times when you won't receive the appreciation you deserve.
There will be many times when your voice won't be heard.
You might have the greatest ideas.
You might have better stories to narrate.
You might be the most creative person in a crowd.
It is incidents like these that teach you life lessons the hard way.
I felt terrible that day.
I went home and watched 'The introvert's banter' by Rabia Kapoor in a loop.
I honestly haven't heard or watched anything that relatable.
Yes, I am that shy guy who thinks twice before starting a conversation.
Yes, I am that shy introvert who is dying to be heard but never gets heard.
I would never be able to say this aloud; hence I write.
But can you? Can you write?