Book Review: Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness by Gavin Ortlund
When I first stumbled upon Gavin Ortlund’s "Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness," I felt an instant connection to its theme. In an age striving for visibility and validation, it’s refreshing to seek out a book that gently steers us towards the beauty of humility. Ortlund’s words promise a restoration; he shares a perspective that humility isn’t merely an attribute to develop but a gift that leads us to a more fulfilling life. As I settled down with this little gem, I eagerly anticipated how it would reshape my view on an often-misunderstood virtue.
Ortlund’s exploration of humility is simple yet profound. He eloquently argues that true humility is "restorative, normalizing," and indeed it functions as the "key to flourishing." The premise is a welcome reminder that humility can be uplifting rather than burdensome. Rather than viewing humility as an obligation—an arduous task of self-deprecation—Ortlund invites us to realize it’s a graceful act of self-forgetfulness, marked by a gaze lifted toward something greater. This idea resonated deeply with me; it shifted my understanding and made me more curious about how I encounter humility in daily life.
The way Ortlund structures his thoughts is noteworthy. He leans on the wisdom of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Tim Keller, weaving in familiar quotes and references, particularly from the enchanting universe of "Lord of the Rings." Initially, I found this reliance on the classics charming; there’s comfort in the well-known. However, I wished for more diversity in source material to offer fresh insights. Still, as a fan of these writers, I couldn’t help but smile at their influence.
One of the standout sections for me was the chapter on "ten practices" to cultivate humility. While I found the list intriguing and essential, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Ortlund had only scratched the surface. The brevity of the chapter left me pondering what deeper insights he could have shared. Yet, I appreciated how he effectively cuts through misconceptions, addressing the challenges of nurturing humility, especially in our current social media climate. His perspectives on how both leaders and followers carry the responsibility of humility felt timely and significant.
Perhaps the most memorable line from the book was, "Humility is inherently cheerful and uplifting." This encapsulates Ortlund’s heart in the text—a reminder that humility is not a drudgery, but rather an invitation to experience joy and freedom in our lives. His passionate plea for us to lift our faces to the glory of Christ is a powerful call to action that resonated with me long after I turned the final page.
In conclusion, "Humility: The Joy of Self-Forgetfulness" is a beautifully concise work that will resonate with anyone seeking to embrace humility in a meaningful way. Whether you are navigating through complicated social dynamics or looking for personal growth, Ortlund’s insights offer encouragement and clarity. I highly recommend this book to readers who crave a brighter, more cheerful understanding of humility. It’s a gentle nudge toward a joyful journey—one that I’m grateful to have embarked upon.
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