Sometimes, I don’t respond right away or at all. It’s a habit of mine. I didn’t realize how much it affects others. It wasn’t disinterest. More like me not knowing what to say or how I feel about my initial response. That’s my fault. I take responsibility for that.
History always plays a role, so I’ll mention it here. I was criticized a bit too often, so I had to learn not to say much unless I was sure or wouldn’t upset anyone. That’s not an excuse, just reality. So, instead of something immediate, I’ll respond much later after thinking things over. It could be hours. It could be days. Sometimes, months, if I’m really out of my element. But it doesn’t mean I don’t care. Maybe I care a little too much. So much so that I’m willing to think about things well beyond the moment. Not everyone likes that or has the patience for it. Most don’t pressure me about it either, so it reaffirmed my own thoughts that what I do doesn’t matter or affect others in any way. I was wrong. I should’ve expressed what was going on instead of withdrawing and becoming silent.
I’m sorry if I ever caused you any harm by appearing disinterested.