I recently watched an episode of TS Madison’s podcast “The Outlaws” and she put the meaning of humility into perspective for me. Being humble has always seemed like a tool of control, but realizing that it always has been puts me in a whole new headspace.
Humility is a powerful virtue. It keeps us grounded, reminding us that no matter how much we achieve, there is always room to learn, to grow, and to lift others as we climb. Being humble allows us to stay connected to our roots and appreciate the contributions of those who paved the way before us. It encourages collaboration over competition and fosters respect in our relationships.
However, humility should never be mistaken for silence. Too often, society has placed an unfair burden on Black people to “stay humble”…a coded way of saying, “Don’t shine too bright,” or “Don’t make others uncomfortable with your success.” This expectation is not humility; it’s suppression. It is the residue of a history where Black voices were intentionally muted and Black achievements overlooked.
Celebrating yourself is not arrogance; it’s self-love. It’s revolutionary in a world that has historically tried to diminish your worth. When you share your accomplishments, you create a blueprint for others to follow. You inspire younger generations to dream big and to believe that they, too, can achieve greatness.
Humility and pride are not opposites, they can coexist. You can acknowledge the help you’ve received and the work still to be done, while also taking up space and saying, “I did this.” Black joy, Black brilliance, and Black success deserve to be seen and celebrated without apology.
So yes, stay humble. Stay teachable. Stay gracious. But never dim your light to make others comfortable. You’ve earned the right to shine. And when you shine, you light the way for others.
It is okay to “Pop Yo Shit” every now and again and to put your accomplishments out front and center…because YOU DID THAT!!! Let your light shine so that someone can come out of the darkness that is life and start to shine as well.
Although this “stay humbled” isn’t soley meant for the black community. It is universal. Be proud of the things you’ve accomplished big or small. That up all the space you need. Have your moment for YOU.
Big Wheels Keep On Turnin' 