John Malvino Alfonso
“In a world where everyone seeks attention, you stand out, Royston, for your humility,” his classmates would say. “People admire your qualities, and we wonder if you share things your father brought back from abroad. At our college, everyone admires you. From the principal to the gardener, they all have something good to say. You have their respect, which speaks volumes about your character.”
But they were sarcastically praising him, suggesting that he might have a hidden agenda. In response to this, Royston remains quiet, choosing not to engage in their provocations. His life is different because he values and practices humility, understanding that true strength lies in modesty.
Not only in college, but now that he works for a company, he continues to earn appreciation from everyone, from the manager to the peon. They respect him for his humility, which sets him apart in a competitive environment.
His colleagues recognize that his kind behaviour fosters a positive workplace atmosphere. Many mistakenly believe that humility is a sign of weakness, thinking that people will take advantage of it. This shows a misunderstanding of humility’s true meaning.
Living humbly doesn’t mean being pressured by others or simply saying, "Yes, sir." Instead, humility is rooted in self-respect. When we honour ourselves, we recognize our strengths, and this balance allows us to feel valued and accepted, creating a sense of inner peace.
Often, we believe our worth is tied to how we perform publicly, leaving little room for humility. Yet, humility helps us live with dignity and integrity, allowing us to remain true to ourselves regardless of external opinions. It is essential for true self-worth. We don’t need to prove ourselves through superficial achievements or status.
Humility and stubbornness cannot coexist; stubbornness says, “I don’t care what others need,” while humility helps us understand and respond to others’ needs with compassion and empathy. This understanding creates stronger relationships and fosters a sense of community.
Challenges are a part of life and can change our perspectives dramatically. They test our character and can lead us astray if we’re not careful. During such times, a humble person looks at challenges differently. They remain calm and composed, facing difficulties without losing heart.
This resilience not only helps them navigate tough situations, but also inspires others to do the same. A humble approach allows for learning and growth, turning obstacles into opportunities.
Many of us today may feel tempted to be self-centred, disregarding others’ opinions with a mindset of “my way”. In those moments, humility invites us to listen and consider different viewpoints. This openness enriches our interactions and fosters collaboration.
When we embrace humility, we naturally connect with others and create a sense of belonging. It becomes easier to build bridges and find common ground.
To put this into practice, we need an open mind and awareness of both our strengths and those of others. Humility encourages us to let go of rigid thinking and adopt a broader perspective. It also allows us to appreciate the diverse experiences of those around us, enriching our own understanding.
So, why not accept the challenge of making humility a part of our lives? By doing so, we can create a more compassionate and understanding world for everyone.