This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. It was part of a three part series and can be found here: https://www.syracuse.com/living/2021/08/cny-inspirations-accomplishing-the-best-you-can-is-more-important-than-perfection.html
My vocation for many years was live theatre. I retired from theater on Feb. 29, 2020, just days before our world changed. I took on theatre with no formal training and learned everything firsthand. It was often the case that I was my own set designer and builder.
My approach to building sets became a model for every task I set on. I went in with a plan but was open to changing it as the project began. I gathered all the tools and resources I thought I needed but was ready to gather more if the project needed it. Finally, each project was something to learn from and grow so I could continue to improve over time.
As theatres start to come back, I am reminded of this lesson: Strive for excellence but be satisfied with accomplishing your best work even though it may not be perfect.
Dustin Czarny, Onondaga County Elections Commissioner since 2013, is involved in a number of civic engagement initiatives.
Dustin M. Czarny 