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“We come nearest to the great when we are great in humility.”– Rabindranath Tagore
Humility is a funny thing. In fact, my grandfather used to tell us that he won a medal for his humility, but it was taken away when he began to wear it.
It seems like an increasingly rare trait these days and a difficult characteristic to emulate.
But what is it? What does it mean to be humble?
Humility is the act of being modest, reverential, even politely submissive.
It is the opposite of aggression, arrogance, pride, and vanity.
On the surface, it appears to empty its holder of all power. But on the contrary, it grants enormous power to its owner.
It offers its owner complete freedom from the desire to impress, be right, or get ahead. Frustrations and losses have less impact, and a humble person confidently receives the opportunity to grow, improve, and reject society‘s labels. A humble life results in contentment, patience, forgiveness, and compassion.
How to Be Humble
Understand individual limitations
Humans, by definition, are finite and thus, limited in our understanding. Our talents are different, our minds are different, and our experiences vary from one another.
Individually, we comprehend only a small, unique fraction of the world. But together, we arrive at a far-grander view of the Universe. Humble people realize their understanding is limited and embrace it. As a result, they wisely look for answers outside of themselves.
Appreciate others
All human life carries inherent value. Our souls hold no more value or importance than the person sitting next to us, no matter where we may be sitting.
A humble person appreciates the fact that the world does not revolve around him or her. And accepts their position as just a tiny piece in the giant puzzle.
Respect others and their opinions
Just because an opinion is different doesn’t mean it is wrong. Please don’t misunderstand me, the opposing opinion may be wrong (there are countless either/or arguments where both sides can’t be right). I’m only saying that it is not wrong just because it is different… and that is a far better place to begin the dialogue.
Listen more and speak less
It spends more time understanding… and less time being understood.
Humble people don’t just nod along and wait for their turn to talk. Instead, they actively listen and stay present, engaged in the conversation. They ask questions and don’t mind letting the person they’re speaking to feel good about themselves.
Withhold judgments over intentions as much as possible
The quickest way to win an argument in your mind is to make sweeping judgments concerning the intentions of others. It is the easiest way to discount any valid, opposing argument. It is also one of the most damaging. In fact, in my opinion, it is one of the primary reasons that humility has completely vanished from our political discourse.
Being humble allows you to practice putting yourself in their shoes and to see where another person is coming from. You don’t seek to win. You seek to come to understand others better.
Help others and promote others
Joy is not found in being right and arriving at the top. Instead, joy is found in helping others grow and succeed. Humility realizes that in those cases, both win.
Humility always begins in our hearts. As a result, it offers significant control over attitude, outlook, and actions. It has nothing to prove, but everything to offer.
Have you met someone who exudes the above traits?
If you know someone who this article describes perfectly, spend more time with them and learn to emulate these qualities.
Laura says
This post reminds me of a topic I’ve been reading a lot about lately, Love. It’s amazing how when you are truly humble, you are truly loving people. Thanks for a great post!
Laura’s Last Post: Round 3: 100 things
Gene says
Beautiful post, Joshua. Love your grandfather’s quote! Reminded me of the preacher who, after a sermon on humility, was told by an elderly lady in his church, “You know, Pastor, I’ve always been proud of my humility.”
: )
Gene
Kat C. says
Wow did I ever need this today. Thank you.
Laura says
“Humble people realize their understanding is limited and embrace it.”
This is such a tension in my own life. I thirst for answers and understanding, but find freedom in the realization that some things are just not meant to be known. At least not at this time. If I rest in this mystery, I experience peace and true joy. I also lay myself open to seeing people just as they are. Unique, beautiful, broken, precious, and loved.
Thanks for the beautiful post, Joshua!
Miss Britt says
Something I need to read constantly.
I know I need to keep reading it because of the lines I read that made me think of OTHER people who should read it… which is obviously the opposite of humility!
Beautiful reminder. May many of us take it to heart today.
Kevin kolb says
It must be read and put foremost in our thoughts. Heaven has communicated through the saints and even the demons during exorcisms ( confessions from beyond) in the 1970s that mankind is far far from the humble, pious beings that the great and holy ones in heaven wish us to be!
David says
Humility sounds a lot like “thinking about others before yourself” and “putting yourself in their shoes”. It is a character trait that compliments peace and patience.
Recognising that even though our own thoughts, feelings and needs are important, we mustn’t have the attitude that those of others aren’t equally so.
It is a world of way too many “me first” and “don’t get in my way”. Probably fuelled by the advertising that constantly tells us that “the most important person in the world is you”
Living the Balanced Life says
Joshua,
I went through a tough time last year. I had a mental breakdown in the summer, due in part to pride (which is the opposite of humility!) I thought I could do it all, and do it by myself, I didn’t need anyone to help me, I was Superwoman. It eventually came crashing down around me and I am having to learn humilty the hard way. I can’t do it all. Not even close. And what I can do, I need help. From my friends, from my family, from the blogging community, most of all from God.
Awesome post, thanks for the reminder!
Bernice
How does your faith affect your ability to cope?
Denise Johnson says
What a great blog! Thanks for the reminder!
Faith from Minimalist at Home says
That was a really beautiful reminder….and yet strangely hard for me to read today. I guess that means I needed to hear it. :)
I love that last line…Humility has nothing to prove, but everything to offer.
Meg B. says
This is one of the most neglected subjects and one of the most important. The difference between one who is humble vs. one who is prideful is striking. Many do not understand this powerful trait. Thank you for writing about this and reminding me of its importance.
Kevin kolb says
This is such an important trait and ultimately leads to the greatest graces from heaven. People of all races and backgrounds must practice humility in order that the great judgement be reprieved. Thank you for sharing this.
Raf says
Yes reprieve that judgement because soon enough it’s coming. Thats a cynical comment in a way isnt it?