Quote:
Originally Posted by Vincentboucher  With adult minds in children's bodies, profoundly gifted children tend to be persecuted by other children. They tend to find little commonality with their age peers, relating to older children or adults. |
My grandmother says I was born grown up. Whenever going to parties with my parents I always focused on the adults more than those my age. Being persecuted for intellect wasn't an issue because I hit puberty several years earlier than most kids (~8 yrs old) and was thus bigger than most anyone my age until about my junior year in high school, and am still stronger. At 11 I looked 17 and was dating a 16 year old (this was not an exception, but the general trend for me).
Finally in high school and college I began coming across more mature students closer to my age, but still at diverse parties I'm apt to end up speaking with people who are 10 to 50 years older than me. I usually avoid normal college parties where everyone is about my age unless it's primarily stocked with the exceptional beings who are already my friends. I prefer people who either already have lots of life experiences to share, or are at least kind, curious, and open to new possibilities.
With people my age, rather than trying hard to relate intellectually (for that I prefer books), I focus more on the emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of life, being very affectionate and playful about things. No point in saying things that won't be properly understood. I'm drawn to the young people who are exceptions to the rule. With them I can share both affection and one another's thoughts. Most could likely get into Mensa if they cared to. They're all extraordinary in their own ways.
Psychological health CAN be an issue for many of the people who end up being most interesting to me, as we often don't fit into the world at large. We lack many of the common prejudices and convictions. Many are bi or bi-friendly. Few feel a need to be limited by normal behavioral mannerisms. Once we find others somewhat like us mental issues stop being so prevalent. We're creative enough to continue finding ways to enjoy ourselves, and friends are the best therapy for mind body and soul.