In reality, there is, perhaps, no one of our natural passions so hard to subdue as pride. Disguise it, struggle with it, beat it down, stifle it, mortify it as much as one pleases, it is still alive, and will every now and then peep out and show itself; you will see it, perhaps, often in this history; for, even if I could conceive that I had completely overcome it, I should probably be proud of my humility.
-Benjamin Franklin
Welcome to February. Our character trait this month is humility. Humility often gets a bad wrap because of its connotation with being humiliated or self-abasement. At SLO Classical Academy, we recognize the power and the importance of humility.
SLOCA Defines Humility As:
Knowing, accepting, and being who we are while demonstrating modesty about our accomplishments and gifts, admitting mistakes, and valuing others for who they are and for their input.
Catch Phrase: Admit mistakes and cheer others on.
Our theme this school year is Together. Humility is essential to this theme. When we are humble and willing to admit that we are not perfect, then it is easier to forgive the shortcomings of those around us and move forward together. Humility is also about appreciating the gifts and talents of those around us and encouraging them in them. This challenging year when we are intentional and “admit mistakes and cheer others on” we will see that rather than being divided by our pride, we are unified in our care for our students and each other.
Forging Humility:
Use the prompts below for personal reflection and/or as discussion starters to help spark meaningful conversations with your family about this month’s character trait.
- What do you think of when you think of humility? How does your definition compare to the SLOCA definition of humility?
- What part of the SLOCA definition of humility do you find the easiest to do? What is the hardest?
- Why is it often hard to admit our mistakes?
- Primary through UMS will be reading Anne of Green Gables this month. Anne is an excellent character to discuss pride and humility. As you read with your students, look for opportunities to promote these discussions.
- As we study our Founding Fathers and other significant figures in American History and we touch on the complexities and sometimes contradictions of their lives, ask your students what role they think pride and humility played in the decisions made by these leaders.
- Read and discuss the above quote by Benjamin Franklin. Do you ever find yourself being proud of your humility?
- If pride is the opposite of humility, is it wrong to be proud of oneself? Can you be proud and modest at the same time?
- Why is humility essential to relationships?
- What’s the difference between being humble and being humbled? (Other than the one letter.)
- Discuss humility and this year’s theme Together. Can a group be truly successful without humility?
- How can you be more intentional about cheering others on this month?
Print Outs:
Print out your own Humility coloring page or poster to use for display in your home this month.
