I am, as I've said, merely competent. But in an age of

"I am, as I've said, merely competent. But in an age of incompetence, that makes me extraordinary." — Billy Joel

In this powerful reflection by Billy Joel, we are reminded that competence, though often undervalued, becomes a rare and even extraordinary virtue in times when mediocrity reigns. The word "competent" may seem modest, even humble, yet in the context of a world that too often settles for the bare minimum, it emerges as a shining beacon of excellence. Billy Joel's words resonate as a statement of quiet defiance against the rising tide of incompetence that sweeps through our institutions, workplaces, and even personal lives. It is not the grand gestures or the overpowering displays of talent that distinguish the true master, but rather the ability to consistently perform at a high standard when the world around us falls short.

This quote invites us to consider the nature of competence—a virtue that is often dismissed as ordinary or unremarkable. However, in an age where shortcuts, laziness, and half-hearted efforts are all too common, a person who remains competent stands out like a solitary oak in a field of weeds. Just as the philosopher Socrates declared that "the unexamined life is not worth living," Billy Joel suggests that the life of competence—one rooted in dedication, diligence, and a commitment to excellence—is not only worth living, but it is also the foundation upon which greatness is built.

Reflecting on this notion, we look to the story of the great architect Imhotep, who in ancient Egypt built the first pyramid at Saqqara. Imhotep was not only a master architect but a polymath—his competence in a range of fields, from medicine to engineering, set him apart in an era when most men sought greatness in one area alone. His work is not merely remarkable for the grandeur of its form but for the unwavering competence and precision with which it was crafted. In a world where many would have faltered, Imhotep's skills and dedication earned him a place not just in history, but in the very foundation of human achievement.

There is a lesson to be drawn from this: in a world that increasingly values speed over quality, where quick fixes and short-term solutions often replace true craftsmanship, the person who adheres to competence—who understands the value of steady and thoughtful work—becomes a figure of distinction. Just as Imhotep's pyramid stood the test of time, so too does the diligent worker who does not sacrifice quality for expedience. Competence is not merely a personal virtue; it is the quiet revolution that transforms societies and industries.

But this pursuit of competence is not without its challenges. The world, intoxicated by its fascination with celebrity, immediacy, and instant gratification, often looks down upon those who toil with careful craftsmanship. They are mocked as "ordinary" or "unexciting." Yet, as history has shown, it is the ordinary, the steady and competent, who build the foundations for progress. In times of crisis or decline, those who remain competent are the ones who rise to the occasion, whether they are leaders in their fields or unsung heroes in their communities.

The extraordinariness that Billy Joel speaks of is not an extravagant display of brilliance but the quiet rebellion of maintaining high standards in a world that often rewards the incompetent. It is in this spirit that we must recognize the value of competence in our own lives. Whether we are working on a project, raising a family, or leading a nation, we must remember that it is not the loudest or most flashy who leave the most enduring mark on the world—it is those who consistently do their work with dignity, skill, and integrity.

Thus, let us take action: seek to be competent in all that we do. It is not a call for perfection, but for a commitment to excellence, to always improve and never settle for the mediocrity that surrounds us. In every small task, in every interaction, let us hold ourselves to the highest standards. Let this be the legacy we leave: not one of fleeting success or superficial achievement, but a life of competence that stands as a quiet yet powerful testament to the extraordinary potential of human effort. Competence—though quiet and humble—is, indeed, extraordinary in a world that has too often forgotten its value.