Wow, I can relate to your childhood. I was slow to grasp mathematical skills, and I was always behind the other students. I didn't get quite the verbal abuse that you did, but I still felt like I was an idiot. I am a father of two boys, and some of the things I say to my oldest son are pretty harsh, because he is a very odd little guy and doesn't do what I feel kids his age should be doing. I need to praise him for his uniqueness, because the world needs unique people. Thanks for sharing.