The Paradox in the Greatness of Humility

When I see athletes, politicians, performers, or anyone who swells with pride at their influence, power or achievement, I think the story of the raindrop by the 13th Century Persian poet Saadi.

'From a lofty cloud this pure drop of rain began its descent. Soon it became conscious of its own qualities, so with pride it told itself "I am the water of life.  All existence depends on me."  Swollen with self-admiration and pride, suddenly it looked down and saw the vast ocean beneath it.  Dumbfounded, it said, "By God, if that is water, then who am I?"  Filled with remorse and utter humility, it fell on the ocean.  The mighty ocean, with admiration and love, embraced the drop and made it the companion of the pearl.'

From: The Tamed Phoenix. by Darius Shahrokh. published in Windows to the Past 1992