The Virtue of Humility by Sam S.

At the end of each school year, fifth graders at Archway Glendale are asked to write a speech about one of the nine virtues they have learned during their elementary education at Great Hearts. Today, we will explore the virtue of Humility as written by rising sixth grader, Sam S.

Throughout this year, we have seen many examples of virtue.  We have seen it in historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln, in classical literature such as Wilson Rawls Where the Red Fern Grows.  Most importantly, we have seen it in our peers here at Archway Glendale. Humility can be found throughout our curriculum, but first, what does this virtue mean?  For me, humility means you never think you are better than anyone else, and you help those that may be in need.

This virtue, humility, was displayed in Wilson Rawls, Where the Red Fern Grows, when Billy goes to town for the first time.  He gets picked on by some kids, and the sheriff stands up for him and even buys him a soda to drink.  The sheriff could have gone on with his day, but he met Billy’s needs before his own.  The sheriff is a good example of humility to the community because he stands up against bullies.

History gives us many examples to improve our virtue.  We saw this when President Abraham Lincoln guided the Union through a bitter war that could have broken anybody’s spirit.  In his speech to Gettysburg, he said, “We cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground.  The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract.”  President Lincoln had the humility to honor the dead who gave the ultimate sacrifice to free the enslaved people and hold the country together.

Not only can we learn about virtue through our learning, but through our wonderful peers here at Archway Glendale.  I have watched my peers show virtue in seminars, when, even though they have many ideas to share, they invite other students to speak who might be afraid.  Students will listen to what others say even if they think that person is wrong.  As Mrs. Porter says before seminar, “Talk as if you are right, and listen as if you are wrong.”

Going to Glendale Prep. we should all strive to show humility, but I expect many of us will fall short because no one is perfect.  We can, however, remember what we learned at Archway Glendale.  Humility acknowledges the good in others, offers protection from bullies, and encourages those who might be shy to add something to the conversation.  Humility is the first step in, not only better ourselves, but uplift others.

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jason.moore@greathearts.org.