The bravest move at lunch is rarely loud. Usually it’s just a tray set down next to someone sitting alone.

Courage in a cafeteria almost never looks like a speech. It looks like a small, visible choice to sit somewhere that costs you a little standing, where everybody can see you made it. That is harder than it sounds, because there is no applause and no guarantee the person even wants company. It still changes their afternoon.

If you notice somebody eating alone this week and you have it in you, set your tray down and say something ordinary about the food or the test. You do not need a reason or a rescue plan. One lunch is enough, and they get to decide what it becomes.