You're making it worse. You can see that, can't you? You're afraid of criticism, so you sit paralyzed, trying to think of a painless way out. You don't get it. There is no painless way. The sooner you accept responsibility, the sooner it can be resolved.

Why do you let it drag on? As the repercussions grow, so does your fear. Sitting still will not make it better. It's not a cloud that will pass by if you close your eyes and wait. It is a gathering storm.

You messed up. So what? Everybody messes up. The difference is that they own up to it and move on. You, on the other hand, choose to avoid it and languish in guilt. You let it consume you until it monopolizes your every thought. What good are you to anyone in that condition? What does it say about the type of person you choose to be?

What are you trying to protect? How much are you willing to sacrifice for this temporary sanctuary from the inevitable consequences? Don't sit there and allow this to defeat you. Do something. Suck it up and deal with it.