How a Humility Scholar Became More Grounded

“Humble” is not a word my colleagues would use to describe me, especially early in my career. Arizona State University, where the author eventually got a lesson in humility In fact, when word got around that I was researching humility, I suspect more than a few choked on their coffee.  And even though I have […]

The Virtue of Humility in Relationships

I cannot understand how there could be humility without love or love without humility. Teresa of Avila (1583/2017 CE), Chap. 16, no. 2, p. 94 As Teresa of Avila’s (1515-1582) epigraph implies, humility is considered a critical element in any relationship. But what is it and how can we harness this virtue to improve ourselves […]

Why Humility Is Complicated for Religious Leaders

Being a religious leader means wearing many different hats. At times, their congregations expect them to convey passionate confidence—to be models of faith and strength. But wise leadership also means listening and being willing to change your mind: from navigating a congregation in crisis to questioning once-firm beliefs. The ones who can effectively balance these […]