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True humility is intelligent self-respect which keeps us from thinking too highly or too meanly of ourselves. It makes us modest by reminding us how far we have come short of what we can be. --Ralph W. Sockman
Humility is always a good thing. It's always a good thing to be humbled by circumstances so you can then come from a sincere place to try to deal with them. --Michael J. Fox
I like the idea of humility. I just think I do a lousy job of it. To me, humility is only practiced in relationship with others, whether they are friends, family, or even G-d. I continually remind myself that I sometimes have an inflated perception of myself; sometimes there’s no talking me out of it, especially when there are two sides of an issue and I’m sure that my side is right.
To be honest, I am usually willing to admit when I am wrong, which happens enough times for me to try to be pretty sure of my facts. But when I don’t verify my information, I sometimes let my ego take the lead.
Part of my preoccupation with humility is that I am currently taking a class on Servant Leadership. A significant part of the mindset is “assuming that doing what is best for others is what’s best for me.” It moves a person from a “me” focus to include everyone. It’s learning how to develop a truthful understanding of oneself, recognizing your strengths and weaknesses, your gifts and limitations. It requires a person to be open and vulnerable. It’s been a challenge for me.
Do you think humility is a high-level virtue?
Discussion (25)
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Some of us certainly have more to be humble about than others. Usually, those are the ones who never got their ticket to board the humble train.
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At least I bought my ticket!
MODERATOR
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I don't think there is a more important attribute than true humility. As the Sackman quote notes, true humility keeps us both from thinking too highly or too lowly of ourselves. And this is key. Having true humility opens you up to discovery rather than locking you into pre-conceived and unyielding beliefs, and supports self-respect essential to individual autonomy.
CHARTER MEMBER
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Yes, but who am I to say?
MODERATOR
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According to Winston Churchill, a colleague was: A modest little person, with much to be modest about.
Don't be that guy.
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