Pick almost any singer or band who has had a hit song, then began performing in stadiums and now play bars on the small town circuit (e.g. I noticed a sign a few years ago that Platinum Blonde was playing the now torn down Galaxy Night Club in Duncan, Trooper has been doing this for the past twenty years, where are Alannah Myles, Corey Hart and Glass Tiger today? Justin Bieber might want to save the money he's making now...). Roberto Luongo is statistically in the top three active goalies in the NHL yet the fans want him traded. It is likely that everyone was cheating when Lance Armstrong was winning bike races yet he is the face of disgrace. The Atkins diet is the solution, until researchers find it is not.
What about education? Possibly the worst thing that can happen to a public school is to be singled out for greatness by an outfit like the Fraser Institute in their school rankings. The scrutiny and criticism would begin within days, much like it does for the elite private schools who choose their clientele and teach to the test to ensure a good rating (I suppose I should feel bad about picking at the aforementioned private schools for coming out on top... but I don't). Likewise for individual educators who are singled out for awards or praise. It can be very difficult for someone to navigate the waters within their schools or districts after winning special recognition.
More people will get on board with ideas and initiatives if they are being done to improve the experience of the kids. As soon as one person or school is singled out for greatness, the other people or schools will shy away thereby lessening the impact of the action. A group collaborating is always more powerful than an individual.A little humility can go a long way. Lets be the Tragically Hip's, Sami Salos, Daniel Nestors, Bruce Cockburns or the balanced healthy eaters in our work. The memorable, solid performer that has done great work over the long haul as opposed to going off like a roman candle for a short ride.
