Today is “Be Humble” day! It is a day to stop and practice humility and kindness. The definition of humble is, “subdued or brought low in condition or status, meek, mild, modest or humble in spirit or manner.” (www.thefreedictionary.com)
“True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less,” according to C.S. Lewis.
This is so challenging and counter-cultural in the “survival of the fittest” and “only the strong survive” culture we experience each day. We live in a culture that at times values the “rich and famous” over the humble and gracious. This culture is sometimes impressed by the most offensive noise makers.
According to Huffington Post, humble people are better leaders and most successful in the workplace because of their ability to put others first and work collaboratively. Humble people are also more pleasant to be around and to be in relationship with. Narcissists are just no fun for anyone! Huffington post writes that there are seven ways to tell if you are a humble person:
- You focus your energy on others.
- You’re conscientious and act on your compassion.
- Your moral compass guides your decision making.
- You see happiness as a journey.
- You excel as a leader.
- You know good things lie ahead and you are okay with waiting for them.
- You have strong and lasting relationships.
Living a life of humility is also Christian in nature. The scriptures are filled with reminders: “Be completely humble and gentle; Be patient; bearing with one another in Love” (Ephesians 4:2). The beatitudes are very specific about a life of humility as shown in Matthew 5:3-10. “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” These are beautiful words of encouragement and wisdom that apply every day of our lives to guide us in a humble approach to life.
So today celebrate that beautiful core of your soul that always thinks of “the other” first. Be blessed by the inner peace that comes from loving unconditionally and forgiving those who wrong you. Know that your compassion is a gift from God. Enjoy a day of practicing random acts of kindness and the comfort that brings. Be humble . . . be blessed . . . .