You run into a new neighbor moving in next door and stop for a quick, friendly introduction.

I was coming back from the elevator with my grocery bag when I saw someone carrying boxes into the apartment next door. The door was propped open, and a few boxes were stacked in the hallway.

I guessed he was moving in. I wanted to be friendly, but I could tell he was busy, so I kept my voice light and said, "Hey, I don't think we've met. I'm Sara, 4C."

He put one box down and said his name was Dev. I said, "Welcome to the building."

Dev laughed and said he still had a lot to carry. I asked, "How's the move going?"

He said it was going okay, but he was still figuring out the building. I said, "The garbage room is at the end of the hall, and packages usually go on the shelf near security."

Then I added, "If you need anything around the building, just let me know." I said it casually, so it felt helpful instead of too much.

Dev thanked me and asked one quick question about package deliveries. I answered, then stepped back so he could keep moving boxes and not feel held up.