It’s Norman, the guy I wrote about before. We were assigned this poem project for English lit, and we had to work on it with a partner. I always hate those moments. People get excited and immediately partner up with their friends. Well no one wants to work with me.

But this time I decided to take the bull by the horns, so to speak. Norman was sitting in class looking around. He doesn’t know anyone! Perfect. So I mustered all the courage I had, walked right up to him and asked him to partner with me.

My heart was beating so fast. I can’t even remember what I said. All I knew is that I had to hit fast and leave. I don’t think I even gave him a chance to say anything. I was all like, “You. Me. Tomorrow. Your place. Bye.”

And then I was gone. I’m laughing to myself about it now. He must have thought I was a freak. But he was so cute. He was nervous about me meeting his family. His brother was a little sarcastic and enjoyed Norman’s uncomfortable-ness. So you know, typical brother.

But his Mom was really nice. And her name is Norma. Strange, huh? She was doing the protective mom thing, which was actually sweet. Norman’s new here. She wants to make sure his friends aren’t going to be mean or something.

And she didn’t shy away from giving me the third degree. She point blank asked me how long I will live. Not many people have the honesty to go directly there. At first I was unsure what to say. I typically feel like I need to make the other person feel better about me being sick, but this time was different. Norma was so compassionate and accepting. I opened up and told her the truth. And she didn’t flinch. It was a nice feeling. I like her.

And Norman is as awkward about things as I am. I feel like I get him. And he seems to like me, too! It’s fun. Yes, I’m smiling as I type this. 🙂