Humility and Honesty are two great Christian values preached by Jesus Christ to His disciples and apostles. Both words come from Latin: while Humility comes from humus, which means soil, ground or dirt; Honesty comes from probitas, which means righteousness, probity and from honestas, which means honor, reputation, dignity, virtue, elevation. If we refer to humility, you have probably heard the expression “having your feet on the ground”: this is due to its etymology.
Let’s take a closer look at these two virtues, from a Catholic point of view, and three tips to growing your spirit in humility and honesty.
What does humility mean?
Humility means being in touch with reality, being properly oriented to others without being selfish or haughty. Humble people are those who know how to surround themselves with beautiful souls, who never leave anyone behind for any reason. Humility is very important in our relationship with others; it helps us to be understanding, empathetic and open to dialogue.
What does honesty mean?
Honesty is a great virtue that we should all aspire to. Being honest helps others trust us, open their hearts, build lasting and stable relationships. Jesus was the most honest of the honest, he never betrayed his ideals or his disciples. Until the end, he remained faithful to what were the plans of almighty God.
1st tip: Be thankful to God and to others
Whatever happens, especially if something beautiful and positive, always be grateful to God and others who may have caused that fact. Always acknowledge who is credited with the good events that go through your life and never be self-centered. Be able to recognize how much help from God and from others is useful for your life, for your relationship with others.
If you make mistakes, be able to recognize it, to admit that you are not infallible, because making mistakes belongs to humans; only God is perfect. Be able to admit that you cannot know everything, that you cannot excel in everything, that there is always a lot to learn, especially from those who know more than you.
Being humble will help you to grow your honesty at the same time.
2nd tip: Ask forgiveness
Realizing that you have made a mistake is a sign of great maturity. Not only is it an act that will highlight your humility, but it will make you more morally honest in the eyes of others. Always remember to ask forgiveness and comprehension from the people you have hurt or offended. You will notice how their relationship with you and their way of talking to you will change. People will begin to trust you, value your humble spirit, and appreciate your intellectual honesty. Ask for forgiveness, as Jesus did on the cross for the forgiveness of the people who were persecuting Him. On that occasion, He said “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do”.
3rd tip: Be open to listen and comprehend others
Putting others first is a great act of humility. We are all used to talking a lot about ourselves, but some of us are unwilling to listen. You will be amazed at how useful and beautiful it is sometimes to listen to others, their needs, their fears and their desires. Just as Jesus placed the salvation of humanity and God's plan before his sacrifice, the same way you can do in your everyday life. Be humble and honest, with yourself and with others.
If you are looking for a rousing religious article that may inspire you to be humbler and more honest, take a look at this pendant, depicting the Good Shepherd Cross, symbol of Pope Francis’ papacy. Due to His strong faith and trust in the Christian values of humility, honesty and poverty, this symbol has been chosen by Pope Francis as the emblem of His papacy.
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