Learning Humility

I walked through the world
With a mighty swagger
Until humiliation
Taught me humility
Until poverty
Taught me what to value
Until failure
Taught me grace

Now I walk with a gentle deference
Listen, when I might have spoken
Forgive, when I might have challenged
Let go, when I might have held on

I am happier
For having lived in
My shortcomings
For finding in them
My strengths