It's been a while since I shared a post on my blog. It's kind of like writing in an open diary, no lock, just there for anyone interested!

Reflecting on my school days, I recall relishing the spotlight, but not in the typical way—I had to earn it. Picture me as a backbencher, uninterested in the front row but eagerly vying for recognition through something extraordinary. It wasn't about being extraordinary per se; it was about captivating others with something unique. Despite steering clear of the front row, I consistently aimed for the teacher's eye contact, wanting my aura to stand out.

I resisted being a teacher's puppet; my aim was to earn their respect and favor by showcasing my capabilities and originality. Looking back, it seems a bit silly, but that was me back then. The joy of hearing my name called out for something unique, something extraordinary, would linger in my mind for days. The shy side of me couldn't help but blush uncontrollably.

One vivid memory involves my biology teacher (whom I had a cute little crush on) in college. When he remarked about my "Malaria and Lifecycle of plasmodium in Female Anopheles Mosquitoes/humans" paper being the best in front of the whole class, I couldn't help but blush like anything. And to make matters worse, he had to mention my blushing in a serious tone while shedding light on its biology and physiology:

Blushing is a physiological response that involves the dilation of blood vessels in the skin, particularly in the face. It is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic nervous system. The trigger for blushing can vary, but it often occurs in response to emotional stimuli, such as embarrassment, shyness, or stress

The gaze of all the boys turned to my blush, and I could feel that my face was on fire. I wanted to vanish into thin air...

Mind you, my husband was one of the students in the class. I think he decided to marry me in that very moment, although he has a poor memory and is still confused about what led to his decision to marry me.

So you might be wondering why I'm telling you this. Well, it's a prelude to my actual topic. I apologize for its length; I have a habit of getting carried away.

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I read a post here on Steemit a few days back. I don't remember the exact details, but it was a contest about how you felt about the first vote from SC01 & SC02.

So, this long introduction sets the stage for what follows.

When I got the first vote, I didn't even know it was a thing. So, yes, a big, big surprise. It feels amazing, and I felt acknowledged. But later on, I got to know that it can be influenced by SEC challenges. Only recently, I learned that it can also be won by a mention in curators' reports.

So the first ever vote was on my SEC. I didn't win anything in the contest per se, but I still think that my content was appreciated because it was among so many other posts. Followed by another vote on the same day on my other post, which was not a challenge post but a story penned by my daughter for a contest by WOX. So yes, I happily assume my content was worthy of it.

And recently, I got SC02 vote — on my post irrespective of any contest or mention.

And how did I feel???

I won't lie a bit – it was a feeling almost the same as when my malaria paper stood out from the rest of the class. Yes, it did feel very good. You can't forget how I felt - I have just painted such a vivid picture for you!

_{P.S. I had used my father's postgraduate-level Microbiology book for Grade 11 test.}

My hubby's still convinced it was a sneaky move to pull out Dad's advanced microbiology book for a basic bio test. Well, he didn't score the teacher's compliments, so he's got every right to be peeved. But hey, that sly move scored me more than just grades – it won his heart through my blushing antics! Of course that was natural and totally uncontrolled.🫣☺️

Takeaway point: Is there even one??

Okay, perhaps, don't be shy when it comes to hard work and venturing out of your comfort zone with a sprinkle of creativity. It pays off in one way or another! :)