I learned a quote long ago, “I am not what I think I am, and I am not what you think I am. I am what I think you think I am.” It sounds like intentional confusion, but it isn’t. One application is to think about your ability, as a member of an audience, to create a better musical performance. For example, that street performer isn’t the quality of musician that he thinks he is, for he may overestimate or underestimate his talent. Similarly, you may be prepared to dismiss his music by the visual quality of his guitar, or even his wardrobe. However if that busker comes to believe that you are being entertained, and that you are enjoying his music, then he can transform into the entertainer he believes that you believe him to be.

Now granted, there are limits. But who among us hasn’t become a little better behaved in the presence of mom or dad or supportive uncle that truly believes us incapable of being a grumpy, petty person?

I am reminding myself to give it a try. Expect the best of people; treat them as if they are accomplished and excellent. Applaud. Put a (figurative) tip in the imaginary open guitar case. See what happens.