Peri,

Thank you for responding! I'm glad that my words were understandable and provoked your own thinking. As for "generally smarter", whether or not that is true I believe intelligence takes many forms. I do not--and I certainly hope you don't--dismiss your own "smartness". You are incredibly thoughtful and intuitive. I think it takes much more of another intelligence to understand and appreciate the thoughts and beliefs of others, even when they may not wholly align with your own. I really admire that quality in you, and I hope you recognize it too!

Also, I think it is awesome that you have such a talent and passion for complimenting people specifically and genuinely! To be clear, I think compliments can be meaningful and worthwhile even if they aren't very deep. Like, if you told a stranger on the street that you like their nose, it might make their whole day (who nose?). And if it is your personal conviction to compliment as many people as possible, I think that is great as well, just (as you mentioned) as long as it doesn't make it a chore.

Finally, while there are flaws to every system, I thought Jaybells' thread had a great way to incentivize complimenting new people without making it mandatory, and my intent was never to criticize that. Your system also works in the way it's intended, the downsides considered as you mentioned. <[another thing about that is that while you may feel compelled to compliment people, it is not your responsibility to compliment everyone, especially so far that it causes you stress. We know you care and we appreciate you!]> No system is perfect, but I think the goal to facilitate encouragement is achieved most of the time.

I'm so grateful we could have this conversation and can have conversations like these! Thank you, Peri! I am in always in awe of your kindness! <3

No :)