St. Luke (LK 14:1, 7-14) reminds us to avoid developing an inordinate desire for human respect or becoming blinded by ambition. While true humility is not opposed to personal achievement and calls one to be fully aware of, and to act on, one’s God-given talents, the Gospel stresses that we must always be cognizant of our nothingness and dependence on God. True humility, therefore, is natural simplicity and an attitude toward God that allows the soul to discern God’s will for us and even provides a source of fortitude. The prideful, on the other hand, close the door to God’s will. As Jesus explained: “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.”