I haven't posted a BLOG since my dalliance with all that is celebrated on "St. Patrick's Day", so I thought it may be time, once again, to articulate my thoughts on a topic that continues to rear its ugly head: HUBRIS.
hu·bris/ˈ(h)yo͞obris/Noun
1. Excessive pride or self-confidence.
2. (in Greek tragedy) Excessive pride toward or defiance of the gods, leading to nemesis.
It is not unusual, nor unexpected, to review everyone's favorite social media page, Facebook, and read about the most recent successes of our collective peers. That being said, I can't help but notice the ever-growing aura of self-aggrandizing, ego-driven testimony that many feel obligated to announce.
I am fortunate to be "pen-pals" with many very famous, intelligent and compassionate people. These individuals have earned a tremendous amount of personal and financial success through their commitment to their chosen endeavors. What I admire even more about these "friends", is their ability to maintain a modicum of humility; relative to their notoriety. They have earned "bragging rights"; all, by devoting many years of commitment to their work.
I also admire the less conspicuous "FB friends", who quietly devote themselves to their vocations~often with little fanfare or notice. These individuals do volunteer work: assist the elderly, sponsor recovering alcoholics and addicts, support their local animal shelters, tutor troubled students...and, the list goes on.
What I am finding a bit difficult to "enjoy", are the postings from those who contribute very little to their community, who live off the backs of those who struggle, who whine incessantly about petty inconveniences-YET....demand praise, attention, accolades and support for their crusade to be the "only person in the room" who matters.
HUMILITY and GRATITUDE are two words that I often bring to the forefront of many of my BLOGS or commentary; as it serves to remind me of "who" and "what" I value in this life.
I DO value those who keep their ego in check.
I DO care for those who "give back" to others and who put their words into action.
I ADMIRE those who share the joyous gift of humor and grace; with their daily anecdotes and amusing links.
I care much less for those who lack the willingness to acknowledge that "we are all flawed". We "all" have character defects. And, we "all" may want to stop....think...and, realize...that it is "with grace" that we have been allowed the opportunity to express our daily thoughts, worries, cares and joys.
I am GRATEFUL for the sacrifices that others have made for me.
I am GRATEFUL for the love and friendship that has been extended to me.
I will work at maintaining my HUMILITY; as it is in my nature~as an actress, writer, performer...and, "all-round" clown-to sound off about every minor accomplishment as if I were curing cancer.
Facebook can be the kind of social media forum that enlightens and entertains-OR, it may be just a soapbox for all who feel maligned by the bad cup of coffee that they were served this morning by an underpaid, under-educated invisible soul. Just think. THAT clerk may not even own a laptop or cell phone. THAT "idiot" who served you the wrong coffee, may only have a pack of "no-name" cigarettes to talk to, at the end of their work day.
It's not my intention, with this particular BLOG, to flog anyone who takes great pride in their achievements-whether far-reaching or simple and intimate.
Goodness knows-I always announce my successes. At the same time-my announcements are coupled with an expression of GRATITUDE and HUMILITY-as nothing is guaranteed. NOTHING is a "given".
Now-I will turn off the computer, turn down the lights, kiss my pets goodnight...and, again-give "Thanks" for the ability to communicate my thoughts, share with others and "play nicely" with those who matter most.
Love to All~
Kat Winn Blanchard
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