While learning in and out of the classroom, I have been captivated by the virtue of Humility. I have sought and seen how Humility transforms and transcends lives beyond themselves. Humility is essential to humanity. It is the proof of identity discovered and displayed. In learning what it means to be human, Humility must be examined and practiced. This is something I have been attentive to since beginning the virtues course. When sought, it is a powerful thing to witness in the lives of others. When practiced, it is a truth that produces fruit and a foundation for which a beautiful life can be built upon.

Personally, I have found that the path of Humility is trying, tempered, and lightly traveled. In short explanation: trying to my patience, persistence, and preference, tempered as a force that refines, redefines, and restores life to humanity. Although its pathway, lightly traveled as it may be, leaves a deeper imprint and impression on the feet that have walked its road than the footsteps that mark it. It is easy to find and loud to hear the travelers of Humility. Their life is significantly less about themselves and wholly directed toward the good of others. They are comfortable in who they are, consistent in their words and actions, and completely dependent on the Creator to design the story of their lives. Humility as a lifestyle is conveyed in contentment, creativity, and collaboration with the Holy Spirit.

Those that have been an inspiration to me as I have witnessed them live with this virtue are some such as Nicole Murray and Dan Windmiller. Nicole lives in Humility as a woman who exudes confidence and is unashamed to ask questions. Learning and teaching are one to her. She draws her strength from the grace and integrity of the Lord whom she serves and loves. I have learned from her that Humility can and must be a dear friend. Likewise, Dan Windmiller’s life displays some of the simple complexities of Humility in a way that differs, yet remains just as true to its nature: compelling and challenging. The life he has intentionally built on Humility through surrender to his Savior has visibly produced a structure of steadiness, sensitivity, and servanthood. To speak metaphorically, I have learned from him that Humility must be the “rebar” (a steel reinforcing rod in concrete) in place before love can be laid as a foundation for others to not only walk, but build upon. I have come to understand Humility as a Father who tenderly loves and attentively disciplines through the life of Dan Windmiller.

With the posture of a wide-eyed child, I continue to look upon the masterpiece of Humility with awe-inspiration, curiosity, and an eagerness to replicate the beauty that I behold. At times it only feels like childish frustration I experience in making feeble attempts to be known as a noble traveler of virtue. Yet, as I walk and wander I realize that it’s simply allowing the being of Humility to capture my own and surrender myself to His guiding hand and encouraging whispers. As I pursue this virtue wholeheartedly, I am profoundly grateful for those who have gone before me. Their intimate and personal relationship with Humility is an extended invitation for others. An invitation that I am eager to accept, expectant and hopeful of the journey that lies ahead of me as I learn to fully embrace and become Humility as a lifestyle.