B: You know, I've never been one to complain about my grades, but why the hell would you give me a "C" on my project? During the class critique, not a single person had anything negative to say about my work.
S: Brendon, I'm not going to argue with the quality of your work. It's BY FAR the best in the class.
B: So what's the problem?
S: The problem is I'm not stupid. I can tell just by glancing at your work that you spent no more than fifteen minutes on it. Everyone else spent days on their projects.
B: But you just admitted it's the best in the class.
S: Yes. But you know, just as well as I do, that it's not YOUR best. And comparing yourself to everyone else in the class might get you a passing grade. But if you really want to reach or transcend your goals as an artist, you have to stop comparing yourself to others who aren't even at your level. Sticking to a "grading curve" only limits your potential.
B: So my grade is going to stay a "C?"
S: Well, that depends on you. If you get an "A" in my class it's because you fought for one. It's because you went the distance. It's because you kept on working, while everyone else went home to watch American Idol.
B: But you have to understand, I have OTHER classes to worry about too. Not to mention work and—
S: Look. You can label me "Unfair" all you want, but I'm not going to budge. 'Cause when the smoke clears and you're one of the FEW people in this world who actually gets paid to do what they LOVE, you're going to thank God there were people in your life who challenged you to be more than "good enough." So rip your soul open and find out what you're made of. I DARE you to be Great.
