The greater our ability to live an internal life which does not depend on others for the affirmation of "personal victories," the closer we come to being humble. Dependence feeds pride. Humility does not imply lack of self-esteem; on the contrary, tolerance and the ability to empathize are the very consequences of an individual's respect for himself. It is actually a posture reflecting an internal reality, where the awareness of one's own weaknesses generates great esteem for human nature. Hence the rabbinical adage: "Humility removes the fear of enemies, disputes, and pain."
— Nilton Bonder, The Kabbalah of Envy