Once again, I must thank Fat Charlatan for introducing me to a writing resource. This time it’s Sunday Scribblings, which gives a weekly writing prompt. The most recent prompt? “Who else can I still be?”

I would like to become a woman with many friends whom I can count on.

I grew up without many friends.

My kindergarten teacher at a private school noticed how quiet I was. She seemed to wonder if my parents were bringing me up according to the adage, “children should be seen, not heard.” The year after that, I transferred from private school to public school. Perhaps it was easier for my parents if my school didn’t challenge them. Or maybe their budget was tight.

I don’t remember having more than one friend at a time until my senior year of high school, when I was in a cooking club of four girls and participated in the school’s modern dance club. But that didn’t mean I turned into a social butterfly. I’ve struggled to make friends all my life.

One of the great things about getting laid off a few years ago is that my networking yielded new friends, in additions to useful contacts. One of them has become my writing buddy. She’s there when I need support — or a quick proofreading/copyediting.

I’m also happy about my writing group. I’ve come to feel close to some of the members. Earlier this summer I proposed that some of us get together for drinks one evening. I felt thrilled to muster a group of six people. I couldn’t have done that earlier in my life.

I also feel lucky that my Iggy and I have become closer friends.

I’d like to continue my upward trajectory with my friends.