[There's just a small laugh because he can hardly believe it himself. But he often looks back on those many...far too many years when he closed himself off, and while he was already softening, he's certainly softened more since being here (dogs definitely helped—).]

If you consider me being "personable," then I can only imagine how you feel towards those who are truly social. [Several people come to mind.]

But it's fine. I've found a simple thanks from people like us can be more profound to those who aren't used to hearing it.

[He can vividly recall the times when he's shown appreciation or given a compliment and just received a shocked stare.]