Most of you at some point have had to overcome shyness. It can take many forms, like that awkwardness of meeting new friends, or when making a presentation in front of your class, knowing that all eyes are focused on you, watching you.

Sometimes the sheer terror of putting yourself out there in front of a bunch of strangers can cripple you, leaving you with that feeling of humiliation as all your self-doubt gathers in the pit of your stomach, knowing that you must find a way to overcome it

In the following story, Knuckles, by Amanda Miha, she explores the moments in her childhood and teen years when she was unable to talk, until she found her voice.

Knuckles by Amanda Miha

"There were moments in my childhood and teen years where I felt unable to talk; scared, shy, embarrassed... something. But at some point, I found my voice. I allowed my imagination to run wild in telling this story, just as I would as a kid. I am not a boxer." – Amanda Miha

Amanda is a Melbourne based screenwriter, playwright, and copywriter. She likes to blog about the news we consume, and write conceptual pieces that explore characters who live on the fringe. When she is not writing she stares at a blank screen and eats. 

Memoria is written and produced by Nat V. 

The short story, "Knuckles" was written and performed by Amanda Miha.

Illustrations by Peta Manning