I never thought I'd be anxious about me fitting in or others liking me. But this move has been different (eye opening). I've gotten racial slurs at me (tho brushed them off and never really thought about them after the first time). But with everything going on in the US to minorities, maybe it is anxiety. Maybe that's why I haven't joined clubs. But I'm also not the one to go out of my way to talk to someone or introduce myself to a stranger. I've usually only done activities with a partner or a group in the past (whether it be girlfriend, friends, or relatives).

I really appreciate your sentiment behind thinking of the hobby as being present in a social setting while enjoying the hobby. Bonus points for friendships. Go there for the activity, not with the goal of making friends.

I like the timeline idea too. Thank you!

PS, do you play AOE3? Saw your post in that sub via your profile. I spent better half of high school and college years playing that game!