Hi! I’m a left shoulder. Three days ago, I received the first dose of the thing called “COVID-19 vaccine.” The one with mRNA in it. Here are some things I want you to know.

It hurt only a little bit, like a sharp poke you weren’t expecting. But that’s to be expected from a needle. They’re pretty prickly. Poor souls.

I was so pumped for the shot I squirted. I was so embarrassed. But then I heard the nurse say, “You’re my first bleeder! You’re special.” The human I’m attached to seemed to think that was a good thing, judging by her laugh. I’ll take it.

I was a little sore afterwards. The human kept moving me around like she was swimming. Or dancing? It was hard to tell. Either way, I liked it. Made me feel better in the long run.

I’m marked by a small bruise. No big deal. It’s like a temporary tattoo, marking the hardship I faced and overcame.

No other side effects to note. Other than the jokes the human tells about mRNA being like a mass text message to the body. Still not sure how it all works, but I think she explained it in simple terms somewhere.

I hear there’s going to be another shot in about three weeks. I hope the human volunteers the right shoulder for it. Doubt it, though, since she favors that arm. So unfair! Whatever.

Overall, I’d give this experience 4.5/5 stars. I knocked off half a star because there weren’t any snacks involved in the process. I guess it’s hard to eat with masks on. I wonder if masks get hungry? They’re working hard these days. Be nice to yours (like have a mint or whisper sweet nothings to it).

Last thing: If you have a question about what it was like, leave me a message below. The human will answer on my behalf. We have a good connection.

Either I or the right shoulder will be back to talk about how the second shot goes. Stay tuned. Until then, please note that I am not giving you the cold shoulder.