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Regrets are powerful things. And I suppose a lot of times they're just the shape that lessons learned take. Like, if I regret not doing something at one point (even if, like you said, I might never have a chance to attempt that exact thing again), I know that in the future I'll do things differently. If I did not feel bad about not taking that chance in the past, I might not be so driven to take the bull by the horns in the future. So...regrets are just lessons learned the hard way. I think that's powerful and something to be cherished.

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I totally agree. For my band example, I think about this book writing (and hopefully publishing) endeavor I'm on. There are certainly parallels there. And one of those lessons learned is to be aware that it might not work out as I hope it will, yet at the same time not letting that possibility limit myself from going for it.

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I appreciate your insight: without the things you regret, you would have the life you have today. And yes, let's dance.

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Thanks, Betty!

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As a musician I can relate. Although I never played in a band with a record deal. I have run over the “what ifs” in my mind many times. Eventually I realized I enjoy making music and don’t have to “make it.” I just have to play. So I do. And surprisingly, my latest band has built a following of 50,000 on TikTok in a year. Where we livestream every Thursday night. I am enjoying it. No travel. No hassles. Just fun. And at age 62, it is enough. Don’t give up on music. Just adjust your dreams.

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That’s great perspective, Mark. Thanks!

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Good piece, Lyle! I was intrigued when I saw you posting about the Rick Rubin book on Twitter. Gonna have to check that one out. I’m guessing he has lots to say that’s applicable to any creative endeavor.

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It’s really, really good. It’s applicable for anyone doing anything remotely creative.

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Just ordered it!

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Mar 4, 2023Liked by Lyle McKeany

Great piece, Lyle! I love Mystery Science Theater too. The old ones with the blond headed guy to me are the best ones. It's a interesting thought you presented from Rick Rubin: not having any nostalgia. That seems like a foreign concept, but a good one. Which begs the question: does nostalgia hold us back in life or does it provide some sort of comfort in dark times? Almost like that saying from that movie, An Affair to Remember, "Winter must be so cold for those with no warm memories." What do you think? :)

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You’re right, those earlier MST3K episodes are the best. I also love the feature-length movie they did.

Nostalgia isn’t necessarily always a bad thing. It can make you feel grateful to fondly reflect on the past. I think many parents can relate to that when they look at a photo of their kids when they were little. It’s the dwelling and ruminating on the past that gets us in trouble.

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Excellent post. Easy to see myself in a lot of this. Great insights.

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Thanks, Scott!

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Lyle, I share in the painful reflection regarding your music. I also was a huge fan of Alt Rock bands around that time and so I took pleasure in listening-watching your music video! Thank you for this insightful read!

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Thanks, Danver! Glad you enjoyed the video!

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