My dad was the smartest person I ever knew in real life. My intelligence is slightly different than the sort that he has, so no, I never was told or felt smart around him. When I was in 5th grade I got accepted into a very hard to get into school. My mother repeatedly told people (even into adulthood) that she was always amazed that I got accepted. I don't think she meant it unkindly, but it certainly didn't reinforce that I was smart in my mind.

In some ways it was a gift to discover it for myself and to come to believe in it without a lot of outside reinforcement, but only in that silver lining sort of way.

Thanks for your kindness. I appreciate it.