> But I can't help but think I could have ended up on a path like this much earlier if my teachers actually supported me rather than treating me like a problem.
replyIt's interesting you raise your teachers / organized schooling when Tao's parents were cited earlier in the thread for providing him materials.
Where do you see mothers and fathers stepping in (or not!) with children of greater ability?
My parents did provide me with materials. They were happy to buy me books and stuff.
replyBut school is where I spent most my time and did most of my learning. My single father had enough to deal with, working full time alongside being a farmer. He isn't exactly an academic. He did what he could. The school system failed me massively. Both in not supporting nor encouraging my exceptional performance, and in ignoring my bullies even when they walked in on it and when I told them about it.
Thanks for sharing, I appreciate how hard it can be to revisit challenges from our youth.
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