I'm always hesitant to share just how socially awkward I really am with people. Especially with people that I have come to know well (because they don't believe me!)
I was in the car on the way to work the other day remembering an incident from a college class. I had come back to college after a hiatus of 6 or 7 years and not only did I know no one at the school, I had the additional awkwardness of being an older student returning. I was nervous and I was sure I wouldn't "make any friends", because clearly that is what matters most when you're a grown person returning to school. I have never been good at initiating conversations with new people, or inserting myself in social interactions. I specifically remember this experience because it unfolded in front of me and it was like an out-of-body experience.
The exchange between these two other students was simple enough. They introduced themselves, chatted about pop culture and current events, and determined that they should catch a movie together over the weekend. Contact info was exchanged, and they were now "good buddies".
I was gobsmacked. I felt like Jane Goodall. I should have taken notes.
It really is that simple to talk to people and connect. And I still can't do it.
Are any of you willing to offer Remedial Human Beings 101 to me?
