Donny, when you're right, you're right (especially about the ego's). Too bad only certain people are allowed to say it . There is one caveat though; it depends on what one's goals are, ie. what's important to them. That could be 1. money, 2. ego-fulfillment/self-gratification, or 3. a genuine desire to improve oneself, musically, spiritually, and professionally. Of the things you listed, I think the most common is thinking one is (much) better than they actually are. This is evidenced by the frequent self-congratulatory statements followed by the fake and phony kudos from their 'supporting cast'. However, 'keeping it real' is not exactly the foundation our warm and fuzzy forum was built upon, and maybe that's a good thing. Given the average age of our forum members, it's unlikely anyone is going to change (nor should they be required to). But an occasional reality check is sometimes good for the soul.

chas (whose mediocrity was recognized early on )