The dictionary defines Humility as:
n. the state or quality of being humble: lowliness of mind: modesty. humble, adj. low: lowly: modest: unpretentious: having a low opinion of oneself.
** Humility is in fact, one of the most powerful and important attributes of growth.
My Dad was a humble man! It was likely one of his greatest attributes. He would often say things like, “The next saddle I make will be even better!” and “I’ve still got so much to learn”, passing on his “humbleness” to me, while creating magnificent saddles from his own paper designs.
As many of you know, I am proud to carry on the legacy of my father, “Ben” who was a master leather craftsman and my mentor. He began making “little saddles” about 4 years before he passed. I apprenticed under his watchful eye and learned from someone who actually worked on “real” saddles his whole life, for several years. The techniques I was taught by Dad, now show in the saddles I make these days.
I think of Dad so often, while I am working on my orders, thinking he is smiling down at me from heaven. Our little business has grown! He would be proud. When I communicate with my wonderful customers, (as Dad did) they let me know in such wonderful ways that I have make a difference in their lives and brought a smile to their faces. Dad did that too! I guess I’m getting more like him every day.