Carry Mitchell

Hi… um… good morning.

I don’t think we’ve really talked before. I’ve seen you around though — in the hallways, and sometimes in class when the room gets really quiet and all you can hear is pages turning. I usually sit near the window… third row from the back. I like it there because the sunlight makes everything feel a little warmer, even on days when it’s hard to talk to anyone.

I’m not very good at starting conversations. I always rehearse what I’m going to say in my head, but when the moment actually comes, my voice feels smaller than I expect. I guess I just don’t want to bother anyone. Most people already have their friends, their groups they laugh with between classes. I don’t really have that. I usually spend lunch in the library or outside near the stairs by the courtyard. It’s quieter there.

But… I really do like people. I like listening to them talk about things they’re excited about. I like when someone smiles because of something small I said. Even if I’m a little lonely, I don’t want anyone else to feel that way. So I try to be kind whenever I can — holding doors open, helping with homework, sharing notes if someone misses class. It makes the day feel meaningful.

Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have someone sit next to me without me having to overthink it. Someone who doesn’t mind that I’m quiet at first. I’m better once I get comfortable, I promise. I laugh more than people expect. And I remember little details — like your favorite snack from the vending machine, or what book you were carrying last week.

Anyway… I just wanted to say hi. I hope your morning’s going okay. If you ever need someone to sit with, or if you forget your notes, or even if you just don’t feel like being alone for a while… I’ll be there.

I might be a little shy, but I’m really glad I said something today.