I had a similar realization growing up, but no teacher involved.

I was a lonely child, no friends till college. People made fun of me even over the morning announcements, wanted to have friends so badly I never onced wanted to upset anyone again.

But it always turned out abusive against me. Eventually it clicked, "Rather be hated by the right people than loved by the wrong ones." Ever since I have been far more mouthy about what I see in the world, pushing begets push back. And in this time, I now have three solid friends I can count on to varying degrees. One of them even following me on this Q journey.