ETERNAL REST GIVE UNTO THEM, O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON THEM. AMEN.
Humility is classed as a virtue allied to Temperance, for it is a controlling and moderating force applied to that concupiscence which is called the pride of life. From the day when our first parents entertained the foolish thought that they would be as gods, men have always endeavoured to exalt themselves beyond their due. All are inclined to hold too good an opinion of themselves, to take glory in gifts which are not of themselves but of God, to magnify themselves beyond others, their equals or betters, and to gain a position and an esteem which they do not merit. Ambition, vain-glory, self-will, independence, conceit, vanity, arrogance, insolence, are capable of going to the most extravagant excesses if not controlled by humility. Humility is a most important form of moderation. It restrains in us all those ebullitions which are most rebellious against God, most offensive to our neighbour, most discreditable to ourselves. Humility is homage to God, is real self-respect, truth and honesty; it conciliates the esteem of all, and brings peace to the soul. Its formula has been well expressed: "Despise yourself, despise the world, despise no man, despise being despised."
