Humility and Self Respect

As I move through life I am always surprised at the lack of humility that surrounds me. I realise that competing with others or getting stressed trying to prove that we are better than anyone else is fun for some, but what are the consequences. Is the feeling of superiority over someone not a little empty? How do you really feel after achieving this 'success'.

There is a very apt Hindu Proverb that sums this up for me really.

"There is nothing noble in being superior to some other person. True nobility is being superior to your former self."

Accepting that we are human and we are prone to make mistakes, how else shall we learn, is a huge learning curve. It is one that can take us decades to learn, but well worth it in the end. Life is so much easier when we forgive ourselves and others for mistakes made. It enables us to move forward. By being who we are, no better or more important than anyone else, we attact genuine respect and friendship.

"A man should never be ashamed to own he has been in the wrong, which is by saying, in other words, that he is wiser today than he was yesterday." - Alexander Pope (1688-1744)

Have respect for yourself and others and take pride in doing things well. A good balance of humilty and self confidence will enhance your life and those around you. Accept yourself for who you are unconditionally.

"He that falls in love with himself will have no rivals." - Ben Franklin (1706-1790)