Are You a Mediocre Person?

"Only mediocrity can be trusted to be always at its best" Sir. Max Beerbohm

I laughed when I read this quote. It truly captures the realm of limitation alive and well in all things mediocre. Mediocrity often blinds us from becoming better at something. It keeps a stupid smile on our face when actually we should be crying at the way we've settled for less than best. Yet, it's a safe place to be. It's comfortable and warm.

I contend that all of us know when we're being mediocre. At least I do. I sometimes satisfy myself in that state because I'm being lazy or unmotivated. I know I can do better, but I don't. I sometimes settle for mediocrity, whether in something I've written or a choice I've made, and I know it. But what if we didn't allow ourselves to settle for second best in anything? What if we blew off our own need to be mediocre and strived for excellency in all things?

In college I was going to be an art major, however, I recognized my limitations as an artist. I was mediocre at best, though my friends told me I was great. (Friends and family usually tell you what you want to hear.) I did a few portraits and sold them. I painted landscapes mostly, but knew art was not my forte. The word "forte" in French means strength. I was not a strong artist. You can see my medicre art here. Some of it is good, but I know enough about art to know that it's not great. I've just recently taken up my art once again, however, and am enjoying it very much. Who knows, I may do something with it that will even surprise myself!

The problem is, I'm a mediocre writer too, for the most part. Even though I make a living at it, I'm not the greatest writer. I make too many mistakes and don't always write from a fresh angle. Writing is not my passion, though I can't help but write a lot. I do love writing poetry, but I recognize my limitations there, too.