The Value of Humility
by John Herlihy
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We often ignore the true value of humility,
Instead, we ride the back of the lion – pride.
At its core, humility bears a whiff of mystery,
Forcing us with our true selves to be allied.
We build ourselves grand castles in the sand,
But where can we find the touch of humility?
Those grand castles wash away in reprimand.
Arrogance finds no place amid such simplicity.
Perhaps in simplicity can be found the key,
To unlock who we are and who we are not.
The gift I can happily offer as a piece of me,
A blue ribbon tied neatly into a bow knot.
Indeed, humility settles into a sense of place,
We know who we are in the grand scheme.
Rhythm and balance without running a race,
Milk settles, what rises to the top – cream.
We find humility kneeling of bended knees,
As minutes know their place in the hour.
Prideful blossoms bow their heads for bees,
Knowing that real truth holds special power.
It was pride that changed angels into devils,
Angels know their place, know who they are.
Humility turns persons into veritable angels,
They know their place, know who they are.
Humility serves as mold for every virtue,
A life-long lesson in learning who we are.
Patience and meekness as humility in situ,
In our lowly state, heaven a distance far.
On the day of judgment, we will take stand,
Trembling, remembering who we once were.
Humility facing magnitude, at His command,
The visions of our greatness now but a blur.
Humility walks in the shoes of the courageous,
On a life journey into depths of the unknown.
Step by step, at every milestone, being virtuous,
Blessed with all the humility of a rolling stone.
—
Copyright © John Herlihy
Monday 7 September 2026
To me there are no least of us. I humbly accept that everyone has value and treat them the same.
A recent 24 hour flu brought me down a few notches. I'm humbly grateful to be over it and its power over my body.
Ron
Humility serves as mold for every virtue,
A life-long lesson in learning who we are.
Patience and meekness as humility in situ,
In our lowly state, heaven a distance far.