It is an honour to be a member of Mensa. From the very first moment, my eyes have been sparkling: finally, I arrived in a place where people share similar thoughts, say similar puns, have similar associations like I have. Naturally, I also see the differences: different characters, attitudes and views – some of these I embrace, others I reject, but this makes the world complete. We cannot be different in the same way.

I joined the "club" out of curiosity. What I found was a huge playground beyond imagination!

I have always been a misfit. I took the test to see if I really do differ from the average. And then, during the first meeting with fellow Mensans, I had this sense of homecoming: as if arriving from another galaxy to a place where I belong. I met plenty of valuable people: many of them I consider friends and there are lots of them I look up to.

The world was a hostile territory. In order to preserve my human relationships, I had to wear a mask of courtesy. Still, under this mask, I was alone. Alone and lonely. I wanted to get rid of this mask; I was looking for an environment where people can understand me. And at the end, the people I found in Mensa tamed me: they made me a better person. I entered the community like a strange, wild animal – and some members just reached out for me and took me in. I am grateful.

What has Mensa given me? Friends, a community, a big family, numerous fantastic programs and activities. Also, I discovered the security of receiving help for any problem I might have. Now I have friends and acquaintances across the entire country.

I enjoy encountering many different opinions within Mensa. In most cases, we manage to exchange opinions and discuss even sensitive topics without major fights… My horizon definitely became broader and I have been enriched with lots of new information. And yes, the daily dose of humour is addictive! Thank you all for adding colour to my days (and to grey matter as well)!

Originally, I just wanted to have my IQ tested. I guess I was looking for some external reinforcement. I thought I would never have the time to attend the programmes as I had two young children. Out of curiosity, I finally joined Mensa – and I have been a member for 14 years now. I found a great community, interesting activities, lots of love – and, eventually, a husband as well!

I was looking for a community, new friends and an environment where I can speak faster. And, yes, I found it.