Small talk, big reward

You would not find me initiating small talk because

I find it better to fill an uncomfortable pause

With a wide smile (I am not antisocial of course)

But starting a conversation is something I cannot force

Myself to do- I wait for the other person to initiate

Any small talk, then I wonder if my answers are appropriate

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I recently learnt that research has revealed

Engaging in small talk can lengthen life- now I feel

Making small talk is a skill I must acquire

If longevity is a goal to which I aspire

That is the selfish motive, but they also say

That it works for the other person in the same way

Feel-good hormones or endorphins are released

Once into an inane conversation you have eased

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Now let the awkward me, who was to small talk averse

With strangers everywhere, learn to converse