Humility in everyday life: Why less talking and more smiling works!

Humility in everyday life: Why less talking and more smiling works!

October 26, 2025 could be an ordinary day for many, but for a pastor from Western Pomerania it has a very special meaning. The author of the story received a postcard with an amusing text: "There are two pieces of good news. First: God exists. Second: You are not." Northern Courier reports that this humorous saying made the author think about humility. These considerations are of great relevance for many people in today's society, which is often characterized by success and self-assertion.

The author, visibly pleased with the postcard, reflects on the deeper message behind the joke. In a time when it is so easy to feel self-important or to lecture others, the message proved to be a refreshing reminder. He tries to accept his own insignificance and focuses on kindness instead of knowing-it-alls. In this context he begins to re-appreciate the value of humility.

The importance of humility

Humility is viewed in Christian teaching as a fundamental virtue that is often misunderstood. Catholicus explains that in a world full of assertiveness, humility is sometimes perceived as weakness. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (Mt 5:3) shows that true greatness lies in recognizing one's own dependence on God. Behind this modesty lies a strength that is important not only for the religious community but for each individual.

St. Thomas Aquinas describes humility as the virtue that curbs the desire for greatness. This humility was a central characteristic of the first Christians and great saints, such as St. Francis, who lived in poverty, or St. Thérèse of Lisieux, who taught the “little way” of humility. Wikipedia also offers interesting insights into the development of the term “humility”, which comes from the Old High German “diomuoti” and means “humiliation”. This implies an inner attitude of service and respect for higher things.

Live humility in everyday life

The question remains: How can you practice humility in everyday life? The Catholicus article lists some ways in which humility can actually be lived: these include acknowledging our limitations, serving without expectation of reward, and seeking forgiveness. It's a challenge in our success-obsessed world, but living a humble life leads to more peace with yourself and with God.

The essence of humility is not to live without ambitions or goals, but to align them with the will of God. Following Jesus' words that "he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Luke 14:11), each of us can change perspective and realize that humility is a revolutionary ideal that plays an important role not only in the spiritual realm, but in all areas of life.

This makes it clear: the message of the humble postcard not only made the author think, but could also serve as a call to humility for all of us. In a world where everyone strives for the highest point, perhaps it is time to take a step back and learn to also “keep quiet and smile” – a simple but powerful attitude of gratitude and respect.