A week or so ago, Billy commanded me in frustration to look at him when we were talking, and I've realized since then that I rarely make eye contact with anyone for more than a second or so at a time, and I don't know why. It sounds really shifty or antisocial or something, but I hadn't even noticed until he said that. Maybe I'm afraid of making people nervous. Actually, I'm probably afraid of making myself nervous. Prolonged eye contact can be intense and awkward. Your thoughts are exposed. ... That's probably what bothers me about it, since I tend to put up a lot of barriers and don't know how to take them down.

I think I do that too! but then I realize what I'm doing and stop :)

no, not frustration! just a suggestion. I thought it would help with the barriers, not make you more aware of them... but then again, seeing them is just as important as smashing them apart with your big 'ol self-awareness hammer, eh? :-B

Sandy, you're one of the easier people to look in the eye... your -erm- narrow gaze is less intimidating!

And Billy, I believe it was frustration! But not without reason. I was definitely staring intensely at the steering wheel at the time :P

I do that too... once at camp we had this "getting to know each other" activity though where all we did was stare into our partner's eyes for 3 mins without talking. it was strange.. but i dont think it helped me.
at least most of my friends (ie you) are taller than me so i kinda have an excuse ... :-?