Join a club, or a join a class on something in the town, like ceramics, or yoga or a book club?. Coffee shops are great ways to meet people too.

Don't give up hope! You sound like a very nice guy. and Rhapsody is right, smiling is a great

As for responding to a girl, make small talk, compliment her, ask her what she likes to do, hobbies, a great way to make conversation is asking what a person is majoring in in school.

Keep your chin up hun, For some people it just takes longer than others,

Sending hugs, positive vibes, and lots of luck!
Sparrow