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It's a wonderful feeling when people are lifting us onto a pedestal, and it's difficult sometimes not to want the adulation. Likewise, it's terrible—often debilitating—when people are talking about us behind our backs, especially if what's being said is slanderous. It only makes sense that we would desire one and fear the other. But, true humility is temperate, moderate. We are neither moved to want adulation, nor afraid of what others might say about us. Why? Because when we are spiritually humble, we know that these things are fleeting and of little consequence. God knows us for who we are. He will both acknowledge our virtues and urge us to correct shortcomings. If those shortcomings are sinful, then we must strive to change. A lot is at stake (our happiness in this life and the salvation of souls) and none of it rests on whether we are popular with the people in this life! Eternity awaits. Let's step towards it with a joy that doesn't rely on what others say about us.

Let's pray: From the desire of being extolled and the fear of being slandered, deliver me, Jesus. Amen!

"Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves." (Mt 11:29)