tibby:

like there’s definitely discussions to be had about how the education system damages children in a variety of ways and that labelling kids as “gifted” when they’re like eight can have a lasting impact on their self worth and motivational skills. but also i think that adults who still cling so strongly to that label and refuse to move on or get help or build an identity outside of that and expect pity from everyone because they’re a ~former gifted kid~ need to like…grow up and realise that they weren’t the only people damaged by the education system and that basing your self worth entirely on being told you were special because you could read as a child is incredibly unhealthy.