Humility

When Benjamin Franklin had his list of 13 virtues that he tried to make a part of his life, he always said the 13^th was the hardest to fulfill. That virtue was humility, and Franklin said each time he realized he achieved it, he lost it. Building humility in our life is like trying to hold a live fish; it is forever slipping out of our grip.

Really, what is humility?  Nineteenth-Century evangelist Charles Spurgeon said, “Humility is to make a right estimate of one’s self.” For the Scout or Scouter, filled with confidence and a good self-image, that can be hard at times. However, as I have pointed out before, humility is not feeling bad about yourself. Remember what Rick Warren said, “Humility is not thinking less about yourself but thinking about yourself less.” That is why it is so important to be focused on others. You cannot be self-centered and focused on others at the same time.

“I believe the first test of a truly great man is in his humility.”

John Ruskin

1819-1900

Author

Those who think about how great they are or how they can keep promoting themselves are shallow and of little use to a successful job. Seventeenth-Century English clergyman Benjamin Whichcot said, “None are so empty as those who are full of themselves.” Again, this does not mean that you think wrongly of yourself. You cannot add value to others if you do not believe you have value to add.

Scouts learn that they have strengths and gifts that have value. They know where they are strong and what they do well and are willing to be the best at what they do. They also recognize that they have weaknesses, areas where they need help. Scouts know that others have their strengths, and they are willing to help others to use their strengths as well. On a team there is no competition, you all do what you do best and together you enjoy the win. When you can rejoice with others for their successes, step aside to allow someone who can do a task better than you to do it, and always work for the good of all, you have achieved a level of humility.

French philosopher Charles de Montesquieu said, “To become truly great, one has to stand with people, not above them.” A humble leader works with his team and gives the team credit when they win. A humble worker also works with the team and loyally follows their leader to the win. Scouts learn that you bring value and strength to others and openly receive value and strength from them.

“Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart,

 and you will find rest for your souls.”

Matthew 11:29

Scouting Out of Uniform is a personal blog based on the lessons learned from Scouting that relate to personal development and success principles and is not an official site of The Boy Scouts of America. John Patrick Hickey does not represent or speak for the Scouting program; however, he does completely support and encourages Scouting for both young and old. John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, Personal Development Coach, and proud Scouter. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business, or group, visit our website at www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2020 John Patrick Hickey