A lesson keeps showing up in my life, so I am sharing it here for your benefit and mine.

When a leader, teacher, parent, or other in a hierarchal position of power can admit error or wrongdoing when it's brought to their attention, they generously pay forward humility, integrity, and wisdom.

When we say, "Yes, I see that I made an error; thank you for bringing it to my attention. How can I make it right?" we welcome and mirror the courage the other demonstrated in speaking up.

We exemplify great strength and acknowledge our fallibility when we say, "I messed up," "I apologize," and "I value your perspective."

On the other hand, when a leader/teacher/parent is unyielding, belittling another for disagreeing or challenging them, they reveal their insecurity and rigidity—laying the groundwork for those they lead, teach, and parent to do the same.

Shaming is merely a projection, friends, while humility is an invitation.

Holly Margl is the award-winning author of Witnessing Grief; Inviting Trauma and Loss to Our Coaching Conversations, An Enneagram Perspective, coach, coach mentor, and trainer specializing in grief, trauma, and the Enneagram.