memnus: A stylized galaxy image, with the quote "Eternity lies ahead of us - and behind. Have you drunk your fill?" (Default)
Brian ([personal profile] memnus) wrote2004-09-07 11:34 am

Social interaction

For so long now, I've been trying to figure out exactly how I function alongside others, and tried to gather some coherent thoughts on the subject. I may or may not have succeeded at the latter; I've definitely got a ways to go on the former.

I'm horrible at making conversation. When I'm with just one or two people, I can't think of new directions to keep the conversation goin, and my mind wanders, and I find myself thinking about other stupid stuff. The other stuff I end up thinking about, I always decide either isn't workth talking about, or has been said before, or is not the other person's business. Similarly, when I'm in a larger situation, I tend to disappear, becoming a detached and not very interested observer. Occasionally I'll latch onto one or two people I know, but even then I just follow them and watch their conversation, playing little part.

I don't make friends well. If I'm part of a social group, I'll be friendly toward everybody, but it'll be pretty rare that I'll actually get to know someone beyond the acquaintances stage. Once I do, I tend to place large amounts of trust in the friends I have made, and treasure them, almost to the point of clinginess.

I think I was lucky to be put into one of the more cohesive dorms, where I could meet people just by going to the lounge and being around. Even though I've moved out, I'm glad I have that place to go. (By the way, if it ever seems like I'm spending an inordinate amount of time around for a non-resident, let me know.) I don't know how well I'll do once I leave here, though, and have to meet people on my own.

Grader meeting!

click

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