One of my favorite movies, Amadeus, viewed from the perspective of what it means to be mediocre is insightful.

The protagonist in the movie isn't Amadeus, it's Salieri. He is the court composer who brought in Amadeus to play for the king but also to share with Amadeus his work, optimistically hoping for collaboration and praise.

What he finds is a petulant child who, to Salieri's displeasure and pain, is a musical genius. This realization for Salieri turns into his curse. A curse of mediocrity.

Ah to be average, or even slightly better than average, in a world where genius exists.

It can breed envy, resentment, or joy and appreciation for the gifts of others.

How we respond is up to us.