I never thought of it that way. But you pointed me to the downside (for others) of my higher emotional intelligence. I have no idea why I never got that because it’s been in my face since I was a kid. I was the one family member (except for my dad) who expressed the emotions for my whole damn family. Then they would shun me and tell me very clearly to “stop it.” Well, there was no stopping it. But even then I found ways to channel it to my advantage — and hopefully irritate the hell out of especially my mother for diligently (and lovingly) practicing the piano every single morning, 6 am. At 6 years old. I was playing long before that, but music was my emotional outlet. And dancing. Many years later, my sister would have a huge hissy fit if I brought up any emotional topic, how I felt. Just went bonkers, in my face screaming.

I know quite well now how to eliminate toxic people and influences in my life. I try to be friendly, but mostly I’m viewed as “weird” in the community I live in now. Fine with me! My high emotional intelligence has gifted me with resilience to get through some pretty fucking hard things in life, and not just survive but to thrive while I’m doing it.

I’m writing about resilience, but maybe I should switch it to a high emotional IQ. Thanks, Shannon — as ever.