Let’s just say it was not my finest moment.

We were on vacation in Texas and I (being the photoholic that I am) was itching to get a family picture by the famous San Antonio Riverwalk.

The key was finding a willing stranger who looked like they could do it.

I scanned the crowd on this extremely sunny day and spotted a man sitting on a bench.  He had dark glasses on, seemed to be enjoying the sunshine, and appeared to be readily available.

I walked up to him and politely asked if he’d be willing to take our picture.

He smiled, chuckled, and said, “Ma’am, I don’t think you want me taking your picture. I’m blind.”

My face turned a fantastic shade of pink as I apologized (and then noticed the white cane with the red tip leaning against his side).  Meanwhile, my husband and children stood several feet away stifling their laughter.

Needless to say, I found someone else to take our picture that day. 

But, that embarrassing faux-pas reminded me of a valuable truth – don’t take yourself too seriously.

In a world where folks are stressed over being heard, struggling to prove themselves, and jockeying to be seen, I met a blind man with a sense of humor.

He didn’t exhibit bitterness because of his handicap.  He didn’t act ashamed because he couldn’t fulfill my request.  He didn’t convey contempt towards me for asking such a ridiculous question.

He smiled and laughed. He didn’t take himself too seriously nor did his handicap control him.

I wonder how many of us are able to do this?

As human beings, we all have handicaps.  It may not be as overt as physical blindness, but we have them.  Weaknesses that can tempt us to feel less than, not as important as, or not enough because of. 

Paul encourages us to, “…take pleasure in weaknesses…for the sake of Christ…for when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Cor. 12:10 HCSB)

Our weaknesses provide us with a continual reminder that we need Jesus.  Every minute of every day.

And, as we embrace our weaknesses and learn not to take ourselves so seriously, we grow in humility, compassion, kindness, and love.

In the words of German theologian Martin Niemoller, “If you can laugh at yourself, you’re going to be fine. If you allow others to laugh with you, you will be great.”

Until next time, Grace and Glory!