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soma,
I would return to toastmasters immediately. I would pull the "instructor/organizer" aside and tell them specifically what your challenges are and what you hope to achieve from it. I'm certain they will work with you on those things.
As for your co-workers, you could fix most of it in two sentences. Find the one main co-worker who you feel "safest" around and say, "I like spending lunches with you guys. I hope you don't take my shyness as a slight." That co-worker will definitely tell the others that you are aware of your challenge and they will have renewed patience. However, your advancement in the company is tied to your rapport. You are going to have to break this cycle there. DO NOT break the cycle with gossip. Gossip is occupational suicide.
__________________
Gives a man a halo, does mead.
"Here lies The_Jazz: Killed by an ambitious, sparkly, pink butterfly."
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