The President's Message 8/14/23

“Humility is not about having a low self-image or poor self-esteem. Humility is about self-awareness.” – Erwin Raphael McManus

In the realm of personal development, the concept of humility is often misconstrued as a lack of self-confidence or a diminished sense of self-worth. However, the true essence of humility goes far beyond these notions. Renowned author Erwin Raphael McManus aptly points out that humility is not synonymous with having a low self-image or poor self-esteem. Instead, it revolves around the profound quality of self-awareness.

At its core, humility emerges as a reflection of one's understanding of themselves and their place in the world. It's about recognizing both strengths and weaknesses, achievements and limitations.

Through self-awareness, individuals gain insight into their true selves, allowing them to navigate life with authenticity and grace. In a society that often encourages self-promotion and assertiveness, humility takes on a counter-cultural role. It encourages us to step back from the noise of self-aggrandizement and take a genuine look within. This introspection leads to a balanced perspective, fostering empathy towards others and fostering deeper connections.

When we cultivate humility, we are not undermining our self-worth, but rather enriching it by acknowledging the areas where we can grow. This acknowledgment is the cornerstone of self-awareness, allowing us to set realistic goals, make informed decisions, and continuously improve ourselves. It empowers us to engage in lifelong learning and adaptability, as we recognize that growth is an ongoing process.

Incorporating humility into our lives requires a shift in mindset. It entails embracing vulnerability and being open to learning from our experiences, both successes and failures. This mindset shift can lead to improved relationships, as humility encourages active listening, empathy, and the willingness to understand differing perspectives.

In conclusion, Erwin Raphael McManus succinctly captures the essence of humility by emphasizing its link to self-awareness. Humility isn't about undermining our self-esteem; rather, it's a journey of deep self-awareness that enables us to navigate life with authenticity and a balanced perspective. As we cultivate humility, we elevate our interactions, relationships, and personal growth, making it an invaluable trait in our ever-evolving journey of self-discovery.