Can you imagine an act of humility exhibited in the Armenian Church, between two catholicoses or two patriarchs as delineated in the Bible? — “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”(Matt. 5: 3, 5). This is the greatest example of humility.
We all know that humility is not a popular word, yet, there are so many benefits to being humble. “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble “(James 4:6).
Unfortunately, humility is often misunderstood and even viewed as a weakness. The humble person can and will always ask for help and does not insist that everything be done his or her way. He or she is quick to forgive others and difficult to offend.
Humble people see their own weaknesses and can readily admit them. Humble people happily serve others, and they don’t do it to be noticed or praised. They do it unto God, knowing their reward will come from God.
A humble person is very thankful. For that reason he or she is usually so happy. When we live with an attitude of gratitude, it releases joy and power into our lives. A humble person has a noble conscience and is quick to repent. A leader who is truly humble treats everyone with respect.
“Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that in due time He may exalt you.” (1 Peter 5:6). This means that the meek do not consider themselves superior or inferior vis a vis other people. Humble people don’t need the attention of others to make them feel good about themselves. A humble person remains the same and treats everyone equally, whether they are rich or poor, a prince or a pauper. He or she understands that everybody wants to love and be loved.
In a society where fortune favors the strong, modesty is often seen as a weakness and for that reason, meekness is often under-appreciated. But it turns out, the secret to success and fulfillment may very well lie in the ability to manifest humility. As Confucius once defined it, humility is “the solid foundation of all virtues” — and possibly the key to achievement in life.
Mike Austin, Ph.D., professor of philosophy at Eastern Kentucky University claims that people who practice humility tend to reflect inward, but when it comes to where they focus their energy, it’s all about other people. Austin says that humble people put others before themselves. “Their focus is just outward. They have a real interest in others and their contributions to the world.”
In addition to being concerned for others, people who exude humility also act on their compassion. According to one study (2012 study http://healthland.time.com/
Studies have shown that we tend to achieve happiness more when we’re not actually pursuing it. The people that are the happiest are the ones who don’t think so much about trying to be happy. They get caught up in projects, people and things that they consider bigger and more important than themselves, and thus they feel happier ultimately.
While humility is more of a softer strength, it doesn’t mean that it can’t make an impact in the boardroom. Humble people have the ability to shine in professional settings because they give credit where it is due and are open to collaboration.
Pope Francis is the culmination of all of the above. He is the embodiment of humility, an exceptional role model, a person who became a champion of humility with his simple life. Are we able to follow in his footsteps?
VOSGAN MEKHITARIAN
