(As in this carving – everyone should have opportunities to be on both sides.)
I’ve been wondering about humility. This is not a character trait I’ve had from birth, but something I find myself learning more of the older I get. My sweetheart is exceptionally humble, and I can’t tell if it’s how he was raised or if it is a natural trait.
There is a difference between humbleness and low self-esteem. When someone is humble, they are capable of great things but let other people shine in them instead. Low self-esteem on the other hand is not believing you are capable of great things, and letting other people do them because you think they’ll do it better, no matter what.
I have a lot of admiration for humble people. Those who can say inwardly, yes, I can do that, and do that well, but I don’t need to tell everyone. I think the best leaders are humble people. A humble person is not proud or arrogant, but kind and respectful. These are exceptional people, especially in a society where brash arrogance is treated more like something to celebrate than the sad statement of human folly that it is.
Just because someone can do something well doesn’t mean that another person can’t do it well – even if it’s different than how the first person would do it. Sometimes people get so caught up in their own exceptionalness that they start thinking there is only one way to do a task – their way, or not at all.
Tasks can get done in many different ways – and everyone’s personal approach is different. Not wrong, just different, because we all approach life in different ways and from different backgrounds. Humility is a respect for another person’s capabilities, and to me, it’s a sign of maturity rather than the childish grandiosity that is so publicly appreciated.
Sports figures are especially known for their overbearing arrogance. “Look at me!” they shout. The family in their shadows stand back and let this person shine. Good for them. This trait of humility is not easily developed, or even appreciated.
Except by those who see that one person is more than the sum of what they are presenting to the world. True humility is a service to others that is bigger than yourself.
All best,
Rose
