Nothing Opens You Up Like Serial Killer Accusations

(We are in a small classroom having a discussion regarding many off-topic subjects with our elderly and grandmotherly teacher. The topic of discussion turns to the then-recent Virginia Tech shooting spree. I am known for being an introvert.)

Teacher: “You know, they say this man was very quiet, very withdrawn, and didn’t really have that many friends. Which is why—” *turns and gently places a hand on my hands that are resting on my desk* “—[My Name], please open up more, so you do not become like him.”

(The rest of my class and myself were stunned silent at the comparison. I still bring it up as my most awkward moment: being compared to a mass murdering spree killer by my teacher because I don’t talk all that much.)