sunflower- i totally understand your dilemma.
i just wanted to say two things-
…1. when I was in high school I remember someone who was about 2-3 years older than me, and the way the person Davened was so inspiring! such kavanah, such an obvious connection, such pureness!
But because of the awkwardness of the situation (the person was older than me ect.), I never did it.
I wish I can now remember who that was so that I can tell them how much they impacted my davening- until today!
…2. When a friend of mine was in sleep away camp, in the older teen division, it was a summer with a lot of conflict in Eretz Yisroel. My friend decided to try to say one Tefillah with real Kavanah, maybe even shed a tear.
Later, that night by an activity, a counselor tapped my friend on the shoulder and said- “You really inspired my davening today. I couldn’t help but noticed the way YOU davened. Thank You.”
The friend was so moved, and it’s impact was long reaching…
GRAB THE MOMENT!
It might be a little hard or slightly awkward but do it!
type a note!
write with your other hand… whatever!
But know, that one single compliment, can shake the heavens and move the earth, and not only will she have impacted your kavanah, you will have impacted hers