HUMILITY is a word which has been so commonly misinterpreted by usage that a consideration of its true meaning is always helpful. Humility has too often been associated with weakness. But Christian Science shows it to be a quality of God, to be desired for the strength and courage it includes. A definition of the word is, "Freedom from pride and arrogance." Now pride and arrogance are common characteristics of the so-called human mind; consequently, this same supposititious mind treats with slight respect such an opposite quality as humility. It egotistically insists upon its own importance, and resists being put off with the fact that true consciousness, including individuality, is a reflection of the one Mind, or God. Hence the seeming conflict between the false sense of personal selfhood and the true selfhood, or reflection of God, will go on in human consciousness until the latter overcomes the former.
On page 356 of "Miscellaneous Writings" we read, "Humility is lens and prism to the understanding of Mind-healing; it must be had to understand our textbook; it is indispensable to personal growth, and points out the chart of its divine Principle and rule of practice." That Mrs. Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, considered humility of prime importance in our progress is evidenced not only by the foregoing words, but also by her statement (ibid., p. 354), "Experience shows that humility is the first step in Christian Science."
As we earnestly strive and pray for humility, we become more receptive to Truth, grow into a more teachable attitude of thought, such as our Master referred to in his familiar words, "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven," and into our lives there flows more of that unselfed love which is so essential to true happiness and progress. Thus growing in grace, we become more able to cope with our own so-called problems, and find our thought reaching out with that Christlike compassion which heals.
