Humility in Media
written by Rachel W.
“Never look down on somebody unless you’re helping them up.” – Jesse Jackson
Take a moment to think about your favorite book or movie characters. What are some of their traits? Are they kind? Resourceful? Brave? Chances are, as you reflect on these characteristics, you might determine that some of your favorite characters are humble. Humility is an admirable quality that is found in many characters throughout literature, and from them we can learn important lessons about our own lives.
The character that immediately sticks out in my head as being humble is Albus Dumbledore from the Harry Potter series. Growing up as a fan, I always admired Dumbledore because of his whimsical personality and wisdom that helped him guide the younger characters so well. However, I think what makes him such an interesting character is the fact that he never brags about his own power. It is mentioned multiple times throughout the series that Dumbledore is the most powerful wizard alive, but he doesn’t gloat about his accomplishments.
“Real genius is nothing else but the supernatural virtue of humility in the domain of thought.”– Simone Weil
Another character that exemplifies this trait is Atticus Finch from the book To Kill A Mockingbird. Atticus is a successful lawyer who is guided by his own moral code rather than by money or fame. Despite social outcry, he decides to defend a man against wrongful charges. Atticus uses his gifts to do his best to bring justice for the man, not following the example of many at the time who would not have taken the case. Atticus never portrays himself as high and mighty; he stays humble and does what he needs to do to help out someone in need.
The main takeaway I have from both of these examples is that humility can be a very powerful thing. Instead of trying to overcompensate for our weaknesses by making the world (very) aware of our strengths, taking a humble path allows for awareness of where we are lacking and how we can become better. Being humble permits an understanding of success without letting it become our only driving force. These characters embody the idea that we can use our own innate talents to lift up those around us.
As you go forth, take time to think of how you can personally implement this lesson into your everyday life. Maybe, like Dumbledore, you use your strengths to be a role model for a younger family member. Or, like Atticus, stand for a cause you believe in simply for the sake of the cause (not for the attention). Whatever you decide, remember that humility is a powerful thing. You can make a change by focusing on how you can lift others up!
“The higher we are placed, the more humbly we should walk.” – Marcus Tullius Cicero