The holiday is a time to drop our self-centered and competitive focus for one of togetherness and appreciation. When we do so, we have full access to the blessings, beauty, and joy that the holiday season brings. So how can we do this? I’ll be the first to admit that it’s easy to think about myself first and others second, but when I do this I miss out on so much of the joy that surrounds me. This is why generosity and humility are a major focal point for personal growth in my life, and why humbling ourselves to serve others is ultimately a blessing in disguise. Do you consider yourself a humble person? Humility isn’t necessarily viewed as a highly valuable trait to possess. In a society of power and success it may even be viewed as a weakness. People may think being humble means being submissive and passive, or being low on the hierarchy without much influence. These aren’t necessarily empowering ideas and considerations when we think of living life to the fullest. Though humility offers us much more than what any definition might portray, particularly during the holiday season. Humility involves the presence of empathy, gentleness, respect, equality, and valuing of others. Humility also involves gratitude, sharing what we have, and acknowledging our personal mistakes. All in all, humility allows us to fully experience love and joy. This is because we start to see others as equals and break free from the greed, jealousy, arrogance, and conceit that cloud our perception about what’s most important. The essence of humility puts us in a position to see the positive qualities in others instead of comparing ourselves to others and focusing on what we don’t have. For me this year, I am focusing my gratitude on the relationships in my life. I will humble myself by tearing away the veil of arrogance that covers my ability to show love, and will strive to serve others as a way to show that I am thankful for what I have.
Give blessings in order to receive them
We reap what we sow. If we want to be blessed we must be a blessing to others. This year my sister’s family and I getting involved with an adopt-a-kid program for Christmas. Instead of sharing tangible gifts with each other, we are coming together to share the gift of giving blessings to someone more in need. Instead of letting your desires for everything you want tarnish your mood, focus on giving and serving others. This will offer true emotional value. When we focus on humbly serving others in need it leaves no room for envy or contempt. We don’t expect something in return and can allow our kindness to shine. Find a way to serve others this holiday season.
There will always be “more,” don’t let it fool you
This is a helpful consideration to be thankful for what we have. We can learn to be content with where we are presently while still striving to get better every day. It is very humbling for me to know I can always get better. Never stop improving yourself. Humble yourself by acknowledging how little you know. This is one of the most awe-inspiring things for me. When I explore the vast knowledge and wisdom around me, I am always humbled by how much I have to learn, and I feel grateful to have the opportunity to learn and grow as a person.
Say thank you for even the smallest acts of kindness
Humility prompts us to say thank you. Much of gratitude comes from humbling ourselves and appreciating the kind acts of others. Sometimes we may forget how much of a blessing it is to others when we say thank you and show them our appreciation. Humility comes into play when we stop assuming people should treat us in a special way, or expecting people to always do things for us. When a kind favor is done for us, we mustn’t take it for granted but instead show appreciation for this gesture no matter how small.
View life through a nonjudgmental lens
Humility helps us realize that we are no better than anyone else. Sure we can respect our talents and strengths, but we also have our own challenges and predicaments to work through. There will always be someone better or more adept than we are, and humility helps us see everyone has strengths and talents to be admired. When we see our way of life as the right way, our view becomes narrowed and we lose sight of the inherent value that everyone possesses. Humility is actually quite expanding. It opens our eyes to see things from others perspectives. There is not a right or wrong way to live life and we only know what our beliefs allow. So, by humbling ourselves we are able to understand others and be thankful for their individuality. During Thanksgiving we get a chance to consider what we are grateful for and what is most important to us. To become more grateful for our life requires we take a step outside of our narcissism, conceit, or arrogance, and embrace all of the fortunate things and relationships we have. Be humble this Thanksgiving and focus on how you can help others. Be a blessing to someone else and you will certainly be blessed in return. Photo credit: kelsey_lovefusionphoto
