I don't like talking to other people very much. Especially strangers. Whenever my family would go to social events (holliday parties mostly), I would say a few polite words to the host when I would arrive, and drift around between the people-clumps while munching on whatever snack-food was out, occasionally commenting or 'participating' for just a few lines.

The thing is, I love being in social situations like that. I love soaking up the vibes. I love listening to other people talk. Not in an eavesdropping way, but more of a 'fly on the wall' sort of way. Catching up on everyone's lives and family drama's without having to actually talk much.

Back in school (god I feel old typing that) I would often sit alone reading at lunch. But I would also often just... listen to the conversation at the table behind my back. Even when they're just shooting the breeze or in casual conversation, I have learned how to learn a lot about people just by- these are the wrong words, but I cannot think of better ones- the 'structure' and 'texture' of their conversation.

I can hardly talk to other people at all, and feel no particular desire to even If I could. But I also find them fascinating. Anyone else understand this?