“For those who exalt themselves will be humbled and those who humble themselves will be exalted…”
- Luke (I don’t know this guy’s surname)
So said Luke in the Bible. Matthew (23:12). Which actually got me to thinking… did we ever get told anybody’s surname in the Bible? Does anybody know what Jesus’ surname is? It’s like everybody wanted to be famous in an incognito kind of way – very odd. Anyway. I often lean on the blokes who wrote the book for guidance when practicing introspection or if I find myself in need of checking my attitude.
The boys were all quite big on pulling the humility card. In fact, it is number one on the list of the 7 virtues that we should all bear in mind: humility, charity, chastity, gratitude, temperance, patience, and diligence.
The thing that actually got me to thinking about humility in the first place was the serious ‘feel-good factor’ that Carlos Alcaraz’s Wimbledon win gave me on Sunday. Two incredibly talented men entertaining a few million people across the world. They jointly embody excellence. Both neat and tidy in their (obligatory and still really nice) white attire, both so even tempered, respectful, and well mannered.
Both with huge reason to be loud braggarts and yet the humility that flowed from them on the court and in their respective speeches thereafter was a complete breath of fresh air. There was absolutely nothing controversial or nasty, no undercurrents, no innuendo, no bucking the system, no BS in a world full of BS. It really did restore my faith in human nature for a good 24 hours or so thereafter. Huge credit to them both and to their parents – we need many more Alcarazes and Djokovics in the world. Perhaps its time for all of us to practice humility as well as addressing the other 6 virtues too. I am not sure about the chastity bit? I might replace it with ‘discipline’? Will have to add that one to the running Agenda I keep for the meeting I have scheduled with God when I get up there. I guess that is a bit presumptuous (not very humble) – who says I’m going up? But those of you who know me, know what I mean. I have spoken for many years about my list for God – there are a lot of bad designs on planet earth that need addressing. He knows about it too and has ample time to prepare.
We have had the best winter in Gauteng this year. Itsy bitsy cold the last week or two, but wow – we really cannot complain. Especially when we look around the country and see half of the Western Cape being washed into the sea. Big shout out to all the wine farmers who somehow manage to keep our industry flowing in the face of such inclement weather in the Cape. It is no easy feat.
Speaking of wine, I want you to all start buying some red wine for the last part of the winter. It really does add to the general appeal of Winter. Look in the online store and choose any of the reds we have – nothing sneaks into the shop without our endorsement so they are all delicious. Or call me – there’s lots of others that we can suggest and source for you too. I am loving Grenache at the moment. Spain sparkled and shone in the Mexican sun when I was there recently and most of their reds are Garnacha driven. Generally juicy and hugely delicious. Talk to me and I will get you some of my favourites: local and Spanish.