The Three Violets
Growing up studying at a Marist school we were taught about the ‘Three Violets’ and their associated virtues of humility, simplicity and modesty proposed by Marcellin Champagnat. Marcellin selected violets that grow wild in the French countryside. Small and often overlooked, these flowers give off a distinct scent when they bloom. In Marist tradition, this represents the importance of being present and doing good quietly, without seeking recognition.
C.S. Lewis writes – “Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less.”
Humility is often misunderstood as weakness or vulnerability, but in truth, it is a source of strength. At its heart, humility is the ability to consider others and their needs before our own. It is being able to put the welfare and feelings of others alongside our own. It is freedom from pride or arrogance. A lot of positive traits flow from humility – respectfulness, kindness, generosity, and compassion to name a few. And these same traits contribute to one’s humility.
The Marist virtue of modesty goes far beyond appearances or modest dressing. It is about being unassuming, humble, and not vain. It is thinking before we speak, refraining from exaggerating our achievements. It is an inner attitude of our heart, of sincerity. It is about the attitude that we wear – the way we treat people, the way we think of ourselves and others, and how we view our relationship with God.
To be grateful, truthful, authentic, open-minded, approachable, and genuinely interested in others is to be simple. To be free from pretence or deceit. People with a sense of simplicity in their lives are directed from within – from their own principles and values. Their happiness comes from within, as well as from the simpler pleasures – friends, family, a sense of purpose – that which makes life rich.
These Marist virtues are taught as spiritual attitudes, not just behavioural rules. The aim is to nurture humility, simplicity, and modesty in our faith lives – guiding the way we approach God, how we build relationships with others – and to live each day reflecting these virtues in all aspects of our lives.
In a little over a week, we celebrate the birth of our Blessed Mother. She is the perfect role model for all these virtues. Her humility, modesty, and simplicity always point us to her son.
Ad Jesum per Mariam
Randy Reyes
