Who's the smartest person you know?

…and why do you think that? I grew up in a family where my mother was definitely the smartest person, in the whole world. At least, that was her opinion, and I fear it still is. I went through a period in my life where I thought I was the smartest person I knew…but I’ve definitely gotten over that.

I know a lot of smart people, and they’re all smart for different reasons. My dad, rest his soul, is my favorite smart person, because not only was he every bit as smart as my mother, he was quiet and spiritual about it. He used his brilliance to help make other people shine. He was personally responsible for most of the good person that I am (or believe myself to be). One of the smartest, yet kindest, most generous people I’ve ever had the privilege of knowing.

How about you?