I have been thinking about humility lately. And I have come to the conclusion that a dictionary definition of the word is only about a fourth or less of what humility is. The dictionary says humility is "a modest or low view of one's own importance" Hmmm, this dictionary says to me that you have to degrade yourself in order to be humble.
I don't like that one at all. I'll try another. Yes, I like Merriam-Websters definition better: the quality or state of not thinking you are better than other people. OK, better. but its still only about a fourth true.
A big part of humility is realizing my power--or lack there of. I have no control over anything; the seasons changing, the world spinning or the, stars shining. I have no control over another human being either. I could try by using death threats or torture, but ultimately what another does is their choice, not mine.
I must revisit this humility blog entry now, because I learned something today. I have spent most of my life feeling squashed and overlooked, a powerless victim. Then suddenly a thought came to me that thinking of myself as a victim just might be a cock-eyed form of arrogance. By seeing myself as a victim I am being blind to my part in the conflict. I choose the victim role.
Maybe, true humility is simply finding your place in the hierarchy of the universe. Or maybe it is simply faith.
The photos of last nights " blood moon" lunar eclipse brought to me a strong sense of humility.
Years ago I had the same thoughts and came up and I wrote this this poem.
The Extent of Infinity
I look up to the sky and see
Infinity,
To my side I see forever.
How small we are next to this
Vast nothingness.
Is there no end to infinity?
How can the universe extend beyond all limits of geometry?
Why do we try to magnify ourselves by talking proud,
When we are nothing?
What good are we to the existence of
Time, space, eternity?
Who are we to say that one is inferior?
To the extent of infinity,
Aren't we all?
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