Greetings everyone and I’m Christian Robicheau at the Sterling Creations desk. Lovely weekend shaping up, and for today, I am pleased to share our president’s weekly editorial with you. This week, Donna J. Jodhan presents her perspective on the fine line between humility and humiliation. Donna would love to hear from you. Send her your thoughts to info@sterlingcreations.ca. Enjoy your weekend.
The Fine Line Between Humility and Humiliation
by Donna J. Jodhan
As someone navigating life with vision impairment, I often find myself pondering a question that is as complex as it is personal: When should I feel humbled, and when should I feel humiliated? The distinction between these two emotions is subtle yet significant, and it often hinges on the intentions behind the praise I receive.
When people express admiration for my ability to live independently despite my vision impairment, I might feel a profound sense of humility. This feeling arises from recognizing the support and opportunities that have made my independence possible, as well as the collective efforts of those who have helped me along the way. Humility, in this context, reflects an acknowledgment of the challenges faced and the gratitude for the journey.
However, when admiration veers into the realm of extraordinary or exceptional, it sometimes borders on humiliation. If I’m seen as a “remarkable exception” rather than as a person simply living my life, the praise can feel isolating. It’s as if my everyday achievements are magnified to the point where they underscore a disparity rather than celebrate a personal triumph. This can be disheartening, suggesting that my accomplishments are more about overcoming perceived limitations than about genuine personal success.
Similarly, earning an LLB degree might evoke humility. The recognition that this achievement is a culmination of hard work, perseverance, and the support of mentors and loved ones can inspire a deep sense of modest pride. Yet, if the focus shifts solely to the fact that I have done so while managing a disability, it might feel less like an acknowledgment of my abilities and more like a reminder of the obstacles I’ve had to overcome, which can be unsettling.
Traveling extensively with vision impairment can also elicit mixed feelings. While it can be a source of pride and humility, reflecting on my adaptability and the support systems that facilitate such experiences, it might also bring a sense of being an outlier. If the admiration centers on my disability rather than my capabilities, it risks turning into a form of othering that feels less validating and more alienating.
Ultimately, the line between humility and humiliation is drawn by the respect and understanding behind the words. True humility is grounded in appreciation and mutual recognition of abilities. Humiliation, on the other hand, arises from feeling singled out or reduced to a point of difference rather than celebrated for who we are.
In navigating these reactions, it is crucial to engage in open dialogue and foster environments where praise and recognition are balanced, not by the dimensions of our challenges but by our shared humanity and individual achievements.
Just my two cents for today.
To learn more about me as an award-winning sight-loss coach and advocate, visit www.donnajodhan.com.
