GIP India, Day 91, The Art of Humility.

“When you know how vast the ocean is, you become humble.”

My parents have been great examples of humility. It is rare to see great arrogance in them. When praised, they let out a simple thank you. When applauded, they tone it down. When asked to help, they’re the first in line. Yet, at every great deed that they have contributed to society, there were no bragging nor were there any request for recognition. It seemed like it does not make sense. Surely a great deed needs to be recognized and repaid? But their stand was simple. Only God needs to recognise our great deeds, and let Him repay us. Which reminds me of the words from a song by Raihan:

Orginially in Malay:
Bila dipuji kejayaan kita
Sebenarnya bukan milik kita
Oleh itu sedarlah sentiasa
Semuanya dari Allah

Translated in English:
When we are praised for our success
It is surely not ours
As such remember that
Everything is from Allah

And that song reminds me of another bitter episode in life. There is a malay saying that explains the common occurrence where one demonstrates his limited knowledge in an exaggerative manner with the intention of getting others to notice his intelligence. The saying goes, “Tin kosong, nyaring bunyinya.” Translated to English, it means, an empty can makes a loud noise.

A great deal of experience with regards to the situation just mentioned earlier. The people who did it has successfully caused the giving of credit to the wrong people, impression that the person has done his homework, job loss to others, poorer grades to others and so on so forth. As they say, life is not ideal, it is unfair. And as such, there are times where principles have to be cast aside so that one doesn’t get held back.

Ultimately, it is your life, the ball is in your court, and you may choose either path. Humility out the window? Perhaps you should at times.