I never did go across the street to offer to help the new neighbors move their heavy things. I got back from my run and kept talking myself out of going over there. So now, this morning, I stand in front of my picture window drinking my coffee, staring across the street through my blinds like some sort of weirdo.

Why didn’t I just walk over there and introduce myself? I’m not unfriendly. Most of the neighbors on this street have lived here for decades. Orla and I ...