Beautifully told, Natalie, thanks!

Slightly off topic, btw, but what a different atmosphere from men's rooms! You know, we barely look at one another in there, we men. We glance about nervously, keep our eyes down, and if we speak at all, it might be with a forced cheeriness, just to prove we can.

Why? Maybe some internalized homophobia? Maybe some bad memories of school restrooms and bullies? Maybe an aversion to be friendly with strangers in a vulnerable setting? I dunno, but the phenomenon is real, across continents and oceans from what I've seen.

Men's rooms in queer spaces can be quite a bit different, but that's another story.

But back to the main point, your story really touched me. The thought of that teenager being afraid to use the restroom really got to me.

Thanks so much for sharing that moment.