I think that the times I did talk to strangers I found it easier than talking to a group of people I already know. For one, there are no preconceived judgments, I'm not expected to be a certain way, and I may never see them again, so their opinion of me isn't that important. I can let down my guard, but I don't choose to do this often since I have severe social anxiety in all social situations. Groups are worse, especially if I know the people, because they are all focused on me and I don't trust them not to judge me in some way. I've been in a lot of Bible study groups and I would hardly speak a word.
An example of talking to a stranger, one time I was alone on an elevator with an elderly woman and I started talking to her. We were getting along fine and she asked me if she knew me. I said, "No, I'm just practicing being more social."
Years ago there was a kindly Reverend who started talking to me once after church services and I found myself telling him about my depression and that was a good conversation that I probably never would have offered to a group of people.
One time in a group of people that I know, the pastor of a church I go to asked me if I had any thoughts about what they had been discussing. I said "Yes, but I'm not sharing." He said that wasn't fair, but I still didn't share. Nor at any meeting of that group afterward. My thoughts were too personal.
I was in a group of people a few weeks ago and it was very uncomfortable for me, I felt like I was being questioned and forced to answer. I don't normally enter groups of people unless I'm sure I won't have to speak, but I was only trying to talk to one person in this particular circumstance. Other people were around and kind of involved themselves.
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Let us comfort each other, and move tenderly when we are able. Let us hold hands and walk bravely, or fearfully together; for as long as there is Love, there is Hope, that everything will be okay, including the things we say are not.