Humility

Dear Friend,

The master can keep giving because there is no end to his wealth. He acts without expectation, succeeds without taking credit, and does not think that he is better than anyone else.

Tao Te Ching

We return for the last of Benjamin Franklin's thirteen virtues this week. Benjamin Franklin suggests that to exercise humility we should "imitate Jesus or Socrates." What is humility? It is the act of being humble or modest. This is a significant virtue because it grounds us - encouraging us to think of we, rather than me. Consider the words of renowned teacher and preacher, William Temple, who encouraged his congregations to avoid "being a great deal occupied about yourselves." Rather he suggests, "Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than other people. It means freedom from thinking about yourself." Let's be clear though, humility is not false modesty. It is not achieving success and acting as if it took no effort. Have you ever given someone a compliment and they said, "Oh, it was no big deal" or "That was easy?" How frustrating is it when we want to acknowledge someone and they just can't say, "Thank you!" Let us not be the person who cannot accept a compliment! Say, "thank you," be proud of the fruits of your labor, accept the compliment gracefully. How can we exercise humility? Give credit where credit is due. Celebrating the accomplishments of those around you before you celebrate your own. Do what is expected of you and don't over-emphasize what you've done. Put your head down and do your job rather than walking around seeking praise. Perform acts of service anonymously. As you do such acts enjoy the surge of joy and energy you receive. Stop one upping people. Don't pretend to be what you are not. Share your experiences to connect with someone not to be better than them.

Make it Happen This week do one random act of kindness anonymously. Don't over-complicate this it can be as simple as letting the car cut in front of you with a smile! Try This As Benjamin Franklin suggests, contemplate two quotes below from Jesus and Socrates. What do they mean to you? How do they nudge you closer to humility? Jesus Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth... Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy... Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matt 5:5-9 Socrates The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.

Blessings to you!