Hi Britt: You’re not alone. There are many people who feel as you do. I had a grandma, for example, who “hated to shake hands” during the sign of peace since this was something they didn’t do when she was young.

The pandemic changed all fhis, of course.

If someone doesn’t extend their hand during the sign of peace (or if they wear a mask) that’s now seen as that sign you referenced, the request for personal space. Children, of course, aren’t always as good at reading signs.

I wondered what time you’re going to Mass, Every Church has a “popular” and less popular time. For example, our seats fill up at 9:30 and 11:30 Mases but they are always much less crowded at the 7:45 a.m. Mass and the 5 p.m. Mass (which tend to have smaller crowds).

We also have seats that are empty no matter what (sometimes certain front seats or seats along a far off aisle).

What’s most interesting to me is by choosing the front row and getting there early you choosing to spend more intimate time with Jesus in the tabernacle and that’s the ultimate gift. If you just keep looking at him and asking him for guidance people will see you are there for him and you’ll find yourself noticing them less. Hope that helps.

Heavenly Father: Thank you for the gift of your daughter Britt. Help her feel completely at home in your house —which is her house too. Fill her with the protective loving power of your Holy Spirit which is love and truth and beauty itself. Let her know you are always with her, by her and above her. And bless her and guide her now and forever through the unity of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.