Social anxiety is a very real thing. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 12.1% of U.S. adults have experienced social anxiety disorder for some period of their life. Something as simple as saying "Here" when a teacher calls out your name for roll call can take an infinite amount of courage. The fear of being rejected or berated in social situations can be daunting, often causing people to isolate themselves to prevent such a feeling. The struggle is very real. In high school, I wrote a poem about my struggle with social anxiety disorder. It's one of my favorite pieces of art because it reminds me that although I often struggle, I am not bound to a life of helplessness. Pushing myself past the discomfort, although very uncomfortable, has a reward like no other. I encourage you to challenge your boundaries and allow yourself to grow. You'll be so happy you did. So here's my poem, written by little, baby Kali some time in 2012.

Heart beat's pounding,

Blood pressure's rising,

All my blood goes to my head.

Hands start shaking, anticipating

what is about to be said.

That's not right! Someone's gotta fight,

Some one has to take a stand!

I bite the bullet, I go for it--

I find the strength to raise my hand.