“Humility is a trait of greatness.”

A thought by Dr. Henry Cloud & Dr. John Townsend from their book, It's Not My Fault. (pg. 56) Thomas Nelson. Kindle Edition. (Click on the book title to go to Amazon.com to buy the book.)

Oh no, that can’t be true, can it?

John says, “It is not an aspect of timid people who see themselves as trash. Humility is the ability to see yourself and your situation clearly, for good and for bad. Humble people don’t care if what they do or think makes them look like a hero or a bad guy. They want to get at the heart of the matter.”

John goes on, “I had a friend… controlled by negative thinking patterns that kept him from asking out a woman he was attracted to. He said, ‘She wouldn’t go for a guy like me; she’s a total goddess and I’m pretty mediocre.’ After a few attempts to encourage him, I realized my folly. I realized I was heading the wrong direction, and said, ‘Actually, in a way, that could be a pride issue for you.’

“‘What?’ he said, not expecting that kind of reaction. ‘I thought you were saying I put myself down too much.’

“‘I did, but sometimes pride can drive our self-talk too.’

“‘What do you mean?’

“‘Well, let’s look at it. How prideful is it to think that your mediocrity is so unattractive that you don’t have a chance? That actually gives a lot of power to your unattractive self-image. In fact, think about how you’re not even giving this gal a chance to choose you. That could even be seen as controlling.’

“He had never thought about it that way. He realized that he wasn’t being truly humble—that is, seeing himself clearly. He finally asked her out and she accepted! So give up the idea that your past, your problems, and your limitations are all that powerful. Be humble enough to allow for the possibility that you can do better—and then act on that possibility.”

So, will you allow for the possibility that you can do better?  Will you?

Yes, yes!