Today MOZEN: No Compromise

F LoBuono

"You are only as much as what you settle for".

I was watching the PBS documentary series, "American Masters", on Janis Joplin when I heard this quote from her. It (and she) struck a cord in me. Growing up with her music, I always felt that she represented little more than the mantra of the late Sixties and early Seventies: sex, drugs, and rock-n-roll! And, certainly that was a part of her act and life. But, as evidenced by what is really a profound statement, she was so much more. She was an artist dedicated to the truth that SHE saw as HER vision. And, she lived it. Completely. Unfortunately, in a sense, like so many others of her genre, the cost was her life. But, this should not detract from the courage she continually displayed with artistic integrity. In a way, it has rewarded her with a certain sense of immortality.

This should be the zeitgeist for not only ALL artists, but for everyone!

Compromise is a part of life. No relationship can be successful without it. However, we should never make concessions when it comes to our dreams and aspirations. They are, or at least SHOULD be, non-negotiable. By their very definition, dreams exist in an alternative reality. Therefore, they should be of a nature to raise us up beyond the expectations of the ordinary. We should strive to be exceptional when it comes to what defines us. Our vision for what we want and expect from life should be one that can only be achieved with a pure heart and laser-like focus.

Do not confuse the search for the goal. They are, obviously, not the same although sometimes we confuse the two. I continue to search in many different places and in many varied ways. However, my goal has remained constant. There is no compromise, no settling, in my vision as an artist and a person.

Sure, there is a price to pay to be steadfast in our personal pursuits.The world has a tendency to reward homogeneity and punish personal independence. But, if we settle for the status quo, we may never achieve (or, even KNOW) our full potential. And, this, my friends is truly one of life's tragedies. A life not well lived is hardly a life at all.

So, make your goals great - and, never settle for less.

Freedom is just another word for nothing left to lose . . .