Conducting Humility

This week we are graced once again by the humility and gentle humor of Shimono-san.  "I know it is maybe my problem, but could you help me.  Please keep the sixteenth note exactly in rhythm.  Maybe it is my conducting problem, but please help me."  And, "I know it is a terrible place to start, but may I?" Always questions and requests, never demands.  No conductor is perfect, but humility takes them a long way in the remaining distance to that never achieved goal.  And perhaps a lesson for all of us who get to witness life on the podium from our comfortable seats.