Great story, and you're definitely not the only one. I can't even wave 'hi' to someone without it looking an epileptic trying to give a Hitler salute.
I'm also no good at small talk, so I've learned to make big talk instead. Rather than asking someone about the weather, or the wallpaper on their phone, I'll blurt out things like "Do you really think this is why God put us here?".
Don't worry about the teens. They just act cool because they ALWAYS feel awkward.
Thanks for posting in the COMmunity!