We have all heard the song a million times and maybe you have it on repeat in your playlist. And we have endlessly seen the iconic phrase on practically every social media platform, but what does it truly mean to "sit down and be humble?" In today's world, humility and being humble is rarely expressed by others.
Here are a few situations when a person should actually practice the art of being humble:
1. In line at the grocery store.
I am the person that always somehow ends up in the slowest check out line in the grocery store (after a good amount of contemplation too might I add). But, as annoying or time consuming as this may seem, it has taught me how to demonstrate being humble and having patience. A person can only do so much at one time. So, instead of giving the cashier a hard time, imagine yourself in their shoes and try to show some empathy to the person who is simply trying to do their job.
2. When seeing someone homeless
"Come on, I'm sure they could find a job somewhere." "They don't look THAT poor." I'd be lying if I said these thoughts have not come into my mind when I have seen a homeless person begging for money or food on the side of the road. But, what I have learned from these encounters is to take a step back and be truly grateful for what I have and not take anything for granted. Instead of questioning whether or not they are "actually poor," give them that extra granola bar you have in your lunch bag or that Gatorade you were saving for later.
3. In a situation where someone is "The Bragger"
We get it, you have the highest grade in the class, donated $10 at church this week, and went to this insane party last weekend. While these are all great things, it can offend others when you talk about it time after time. It is okay to be proud and talk about your accomplishments, but when pride turns to boasting, it often leads to anger and upset.
4. When you are getting complimented
Who doesn't love a compliment every now and then? Often times, when I am complimented, I feel like I'm on cloud nine. It's a great feeling, but sometimes we can let it get to our head. When someone compliments you, sometimes the best thing to do is simply and kindly say, "thank you." Try to remain humble when receiving a compliment instead of boasting or bragging about it to others.
5. Remembering that it's okay to have imperfection
No one is perfect and obtaining perfection is nearly impossible. Accepting our imperfections, rather than trying to be the best at every single thing we do, is a life skill that often leads to a happier and more peaceful lifestyle. After all, as the saying goes, "Imperfection is beauty." When we remain humble and can find balance in our lifestyles and choices, we ultimately succeed, no matter what imperfections or flaws are present.
Being humble does not make you, in anyway, a meek or lesser person. "Sitting down and being humble" simply allows us to put other people's lives into perspective and be grateful and content with what we have in life. Practicing humility might seem difficult at first, but over time it becomes second nature and shapes others into admirable and respectable individuals.
