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The Virtue of Being Humble 9-14-2008 |
One of Pope John XXIII’s first visitors after his election was his own mother, a woman who had lived a great deal of her life in poverty.
When she was escorted through the halls of the papal palace she was awestruck at the beauty which adorned them, especially the elaborate décor outside the large room where her son received visitors. When her group was ushered in to see the Pope, she noted how each person knelt to kiss the ring of His Holiness. When her turn came she also knelt, acknowledging his spiritual authority in her life.
After Mrs. Roncalli arose, she held out her own hand to the Pope and said, “Now, son, you kiss this ring for if it were not for this one, you would not be wearing your ring!”
Why is it that mothers always know what to say? Better yet, the pope’s mother had an accurate assessment of the situation, as she indeed gave him life. She also continued to teach her son a lesson in being humble.
There are more than a few people who need to embrace more the virtue of being humble in their everyday lives. By the way we speak to our parents, not with a commanding “WHAT” fired back when a question goes unheard. Through showing a greater respect by our attire in church or simply not responding in anger to a mistake, but realizing none of us is perfect, though society says we should be. To act with humility does not signify weakness in the eyes of God. Instead, when one is humble there is a level of spiritual growth recognizing, as John the Baptist did, “I must decrease, and HE must increase.”
Hopefully, through our adult actions, our children will develop a better sense of humbleness in their lives. Remember, one is never too old to learn. I believe John XXIII learned this when he met his mother in that reception room. Have a good week.
Love, Fr. Bill
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