[That's...a good question. How does she not understand what he means though? He definitely lacks any kind of empathy on this kind of subject.]

Have a sense of pride, Shiemi. There's nothing wrong with being proud of yourself. You'll find your confidence grow if you don't let up on that very idea. It's helped me several times in the past when I was up against all odds. [Seriously, you're asking the guy who's defining trait is his pride.]