The Spirit Realm

If people aren't triping over slowers on your server, you'll make a reputation and get into better groups. If you're sort of soft right now, aa/gear-wise, just don't slow until the mob's at 95% or so... and they'll never find out if you can take the hit or not.

Oh, and just be honest about the fact that you have been away for a while, and do a little "Gee Whiz this is cool and new" as you go along. Most everyone will be glad to make allowances, share insights, and help you progress.

We have all encountered plenty of people who are not on their first character, they are someone's third twink, and they have been through all this content many times over; so it's easy to assume that a 68 or 69 shaman should know a lot of stuff.

But in fact it is new to you. Say so in your pickup group, and people will be helpful.