I'm really enjoying these other opinions and perspectives! This really helps
As for being an only child, I think I'm starting to agree as well that it has a lot to do with parenting. Of course, I don't really have the right to judge other people's parenting methods, but just from evidence I've been seeing, I think you're right.
I do also know other only-children who are very kind, some of who are my good friends
I just meant that it is possibly one contributing factor in this specific situation (sort of like...NORMALLY it wouldn't be a factor but because of all these other factors, ie. giftedness and parents who believe they are intellectually inferior, it has possibly BECOME one of the contributing factors).
By the way, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been reading and taking the time to think about my situation and respond
Zen Scanner, I think I can relate a bit. It's always intriguing to find someone who you can engage in "witty banter" with
but I am finding out quickly that although that can be fun and interesting, the empathic part is essential (to me) to truly consider someone a friend, witty or not. I would much rather spend time with and get to know compassionate, and (bear with me here, I don't mean to be rude or condescending) "less intellectual" people, than to spend a lot of time with someone who can keep up in conversation but may, at any point, "backstab" you or ditch you.
I think a good recipe is:
- Constant friends: not necessarily highly intelligent or gifted, but kind people who you get along with and can have fun with
- Friends who you hang out with once in a while for a deep, engaging, intellectual discussion: the person the original post was about
- And if you find a friend who belongs in both categories: they'll probably be your "best friend"!
Does anyone agree with this? (I know there are a huge variety of opinions out there! Let me know what they are!)
-Venn
