Cedric's position is not altogether unique. In American society being
             thought of as "smart" can have a negative connotation. A friend of mine who
             was raised in Russia noted that, "No one in Russia would ever say, I'm no
             good at math,' even if they were. It's embarrassing to not have at least
             some knowledge of such a basic subject. But here in America, almost
             everyone you ask will tell you that they aren't a
             ...